The European champions finished third in the eight-team tournament when they defeated hosts South Africa 3-2 after extra time, thanks to a Xabi Alonso free-kick.

"It's a nice way to forget about the loss to the U.S," Del Bosque said after the game.

"The match was difficult for us. Our opponent created a lot of difficulties for us."

South Africa took a surprising lead on 74 minutes, thanks to a Katlego Mphela goal.

A quick-fire brace from Daniel Guiza late in the game overturned the result but Mphela ensured the Bafana Bafana still had a chance to win by leveling the score in stoppage time.

Liverpool midfielder Alonso notched the decisive goal in the 107th minute when his attempted cross from a free kick sailed into the net.

"It was a match of equals and the team could have won. Spain was lucky," South Africa coach Joel Santana said.

"Bafana Bafana played very good, gave two goals against Spain. They played very well against a team that is best in rankings."