Cruyff was part of the Dutch side that reached the final in 1974, although the former forward had retired from international football when Holland again fell at the final hurdle four years later.

The 63 year-old, a legend at Barcelona having graced the club as both a player and a coach, is well-placed to judge both sides and sees Spain coming out on top tomorrow, if they are allowed to play their natural game.

"Spain have always had good footballers and never a team, but now they have one," he said.

"They have worked very well in the last few years and if they get into their rhythm, they should win. Normally Spain play better (than Holland), but that doesn't mean they will win."

Cruyff was less enthusiastic about Holland, but believes Bert van Marwijk's side is an efficient team with two or three players at the top of their game.

"Holland is a very balanced team, they know their strengths and their weaknesses, and up until now (at this World Cup) they have always been able to make their strengths shine through," he said.

"They have two or three players playing at an exceptional level at the World Cup and the team's level has risen enormously."