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The Spanish appear to have chosen method over beauty. In the Euro they dazzled their way over the finish line. In South Africa, it seems they have to push their way there. They continue to put together the most intricate and intuitive of passes, but move towards goal far less often. Perhaps it is the struggles of striker Fernando Torres that has forced the Spanish hand into a reshuffling of the deck, or just the traditional caution that comes with the raised stakes of the World Cup. Perhaps it was the opening day loss to Switzerland.

But this is not necessarily a bad thing. Spain may have just found the type of balance that can beat any team. They've conceded twice - opening day, and a deflected strike for Chile - and haven't given the ball back since. While they carve out less chances, they continue to maintain possession of the highest order. Losing the ball to Spain means you may not get it back for another five minutes.

And just because Xavi and co. in the midfield aren't providing as many defense-splitting passes as they were with Barcelona or in the Euro, doesn't mean they won't. As evidenced by the Portugal and Paraguay goals, Xavi and Iniesta still recognize the moment that will change the game, and duly provide it- David Villa being the main beneficiary.

The Spanish midfield is still the most artistic on earth. They are also still the most cerebral. It is this genius that has led them to realize that unlocking any World Cup defense requires more than art. It requires surgery. Over the last two years, Xabi Alonso and the Barca boys especially seem to have acquired their Ph.D.

While Spain don't flow through defenses as they did in the Euro, they still win. And they are probably harder to take down. To win, you need to score, to score you need the ball, and it's all Spain's.