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| Conf: Spain reach semis |
Wednesday 17 June, 2009 |
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Spain lie in wait for Italy or Brazil in the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup after they beat Iraq 1-0 in Group A.
The Euro 2008 winners found the going harder than they did against New Zealand in their opener, who they clobbered 5-0. However, David Villa's second half goal was enough to secure their second win.
The victory means Spain will be in the last four of the tournament, and, barring a shock set of results, they will top Group A. Consequently Italy will need to top Group B if they are to avoid meeting the favourites before the Final.
Vicente Del Bosque's side are now unbeaten in 34 matches - one short of a world record streak - and, while never looking breathtaking, always looked comfortable and in control of the game.
Villa's headed goal was his 30th for his nation and moves him into second place in the all-time list, 14 behind Real Madrid legend Raul.
Host nation South Africa take on New Zealand this evening in the other Group A game. The Bafana Bafana need a win after their disappointing start against Iraq, while the All Whites need to save face after the thumping they took from Spain.
Spain 1-0 Iraq
Scorer: Villa 55 (S)
Spain: Casillas; Sergio Ramos, Pique, Marchena, Capdevila; Cazorla (Silva 67), Mata, Xavi (Busquets 82), Xabi Alonso; Villa (Guiza 75), Torres
Iraq: Kassid; Abbas, Shaker, Rehema, Majeed; Kareem, Khalid; Mohammed, Akram, Saeed (Jasim 69); Zahra (Mahmoud 80)
Ref: Breeze (Aus)
Attendance: To follow.
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Confederations Cup 2009
The Confederations Cup is well underway with Spain, Brazil and Italy all looking likely to reach the semi-final stage. More
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