Has to be David Villa, surely. Without Villa, Spain were out in the group no question due to having the finishing ability of Ghana and a lack of width.
Why David Villa? Wesley Sneijder, who isn't even a striker, scored as much goals as him. Sneijd'or even has a few assists. He is the only one who can claim this title.
Perhaps, but other Dutch players have stepped up and gotten the job done in matches, such as Robben with his goals against Cameroon and Slovakia. Without David Villa, Spain would not have made it out of the group stage. Without Sneidjer, who was a limited factor vs Denmark and Cameroon, the Dutch still would have made the knockout phase.
Luis Suarez: scored winning goal against Mex, giving Uruguay first in its group. scores both goals in 2-1 win of Korea in R16. prevents winning goal against Uruguay, vs Ghana, allowing Uruguay to advance to semis. Just as important as Villa. Though for all around great play and importance to his team, I would like to see Forlan get it.