Spanish soccer has reached a level of its own. Spain’s World Cup victory on Sunday added to the nation’s long list of recent triumphs across men’s, women’s and youth competitions, highlighting the dominance of a system that has stuck to a tactical identity and the development of collective talent.

Spain's immaculate two-year run has culminated in the team's second FIFA World Cup title. Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in Sunday's World Cup final to win its first title since 2010, extending the team's unbeaten streak to a record 38 straight matches.

Over 104 games, a bunch of questionable VAR calls, another heartbreaking downfall by Mexico and a brilliant goal by Spain's Ferran Torres, I learned why soccer is the world's most popular sport.

USA TODAY caught up with Olympian Ilia Malinin, who is attending his first soccer match ever at the World Cup.