Sorry, cannot agree that Boeing got this one wrong, your memories are failing you if you say that, cast your minds back.
Boeing and AirBus both produced plans for a VLA, Boeing stated publicly that, in their view, having spoken to airlines and made an assessement of potential orders, there may be insufficient market to break even, even less chance of a substantial profit. Boeing offered AirBus the opportunity to form a VLA consortium, share the development costs and see where to go from there. AirBus refused, Boeing watched as AirBus went ahead with the A380 and then said they could not see the VLA as a commerical venture and cancelled their plans.
AirBus continued. The A380 is currently over weight, over budget and under ordered - Yes I know, plenty of orders for an aircraft that has yet to fly but airlines now have a far better idea of what to expect and have previous experience of the 747 quantum leap so, those that want it have ordered it, hardly enough to break even is it?
This is a specialist aircraft for certain routes only and most airlines will only need a few. Don't be misled by the EK order.
In this instance I believe Boeing got it very right indeed.