Texas, July 14 -- Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente hailed his players after their 2-0 victory over France in the FIFA World Cup semifinal, saying his side proved they are "the best team in the world" with a disciplined and clinical display.

Speaking after La Roja booked their place in the World Cup final, De la Fuente credited the squad's commitment to a long-term vision that began nearly four years ago.

"We started almost four years ago with an idea, and we've been faithful to that idea, and it's brought us here," De la Fuente said, as quoted by FIFA.

The Spain coach acknowledged the quality of France but insisted his side rose above the challenge.

"Today we faced one of the best national teams in the world, but in front of them th...