A month ago, when the World Cup got underway, Spain were among the favourites, though barely anyone was talking about them. Most of the pre-tournament chatter centred on France's frontline, Argentina defending their title, and whether this might be the last World Cup for Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.

European champions Spain face South American champions Argentina in Sunday’s final, and there are three key reasons for their strong run.

La Roja is a game away from its second World Cup triumph.

Spain's World Cup triumph over Argentina was more than the culmination of an unbeaten campaign—it was the validation of a footballing philosophy built on possession, collective…