There is still a bitter taste in the mouth of many Spaniards over their national team's quarter-final exit at the 2002 World Cup and, 13 years on, some contemporary Spanish footballers are recalling the incidents which cost their side a place among the last four.

Real Madrid's Isco, a 23-year-old attacking midfielder who is a regular member of Spain's squad, was only 10 when Spain lost to co-hosts South Korea on penalties following a 0-0 draw but he still launched a scathing attack on Egyptian referee Gamal El-Ghandour when asked about that World Cup

El-Ghandour was vilified in Spain following the team's cruel exit, having disallowed two goals for La Roja.

Ivan Helguera, who had to be restrained from the referee at the end of the match, headed home early in the second half but his goal was disallowed for apparent shirt tugging.

In extra time, Fernando Morientes headed home following a cross from Joaquin, who now plays at Italian side Fiorentina, but the linesman adjudged the ball to have crossed the byline before the cross was sent to the former Real Madrid and Monaco striker.

"It was a shame. Now a lot of things are coming out about that… [Egyptian referee Gamal] Ghandour – made disgraceful decisions," Isco was quoted as saying by Spanish newspaper AS.

El-Ghandour, who now works as a television pundit, is widely regarded as the best referee in Egypt's history, having officiated at many international tournaments including two World Cups in 1998 and 2002, EURO 2000 and the 2001 FIFA Confederations Cup.

Spain won their maiden World Cup title five years ago in South Africa when they defeated the Netherlands 1-0 after extra time in the final. 

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