Spain striker David Villa hopes the 4-0 thrashing of Ukraine in their opening Group H clash in Leipzig will be the start of a long run of success in Germany.

Villa scored two goals in the romp as Spain, who usually flatter to deceive in major tournaments, made the best possible start to the 2006 competition.

"I'm very pleased with the goals and in particular for the win for Spain," he said.

"We got in front from the corner and in the end had a great game.

"We hope it will be the first step in a good World Cup for Spain. We gave our all today, the fans have enjoyed themselves and I hope it continues like this."