Contreras' passage to the World Cup came in the most bizarre of circumstances.

The Malaga keeper was called up to the final 23-man squad when first-choice goalkeeper Santiago Canizares severed a tendon in his right foot when he smashed a bottle of aftershave.

Some would argue that Real Madrid keeper Iker Castillas, whose heroics in the final of the European Cup ensured victory for his side, was the more likely contender for the third keeping spot.

But coach Jose Antonio Camacho argued that Contreras' shot-stopping efforts throughout the season was enough to make the trip.