Newcomer Pedro Rodriguez showed his place in Spain's World Cup team was well-merited by playing a big part in a 1-0 victory over Germany that put the European champions in the final.

Pedro had "no idea" he would get the nod over regular striker Fernando Torres, but the Barcelona forward pulled himself together in his first international start to be one of the standout players on Wednesday.

Pedro made Spain's team after helping Barcelona to Spanish league and Club World Cup triumphs and becoming the only player to score in six different competitions in one campaign.

His inexperience also showed in the closing moments when he made "a bad decision" by failing to pass off to Torres, who was wide open in front of goal.

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