FCBARCELONA.CAT

14.06.2008 20:10

Spain wins to stay group leader (1-2)

www.fcbarcelona.cat

Spain has won their tie against Sweden, in a game that featured a lot of counter-attacks. With three Barça players, Puyol, Iniesta and Xavi, the Spanish national side is on the verge of qualifying for the knockout stage.

Carles Puyol, Xavi and Iniesta all made their second appearance in the tournament for Spain in the second game in Group D against Sweden. The three Barça players, all of whom were substituted during the game, were against their old team-mate Henrik Larsson.

Early lead

A strong Swedish defence kept Spain at bay till the 14th minute, when Fernando Torres made it 1-0 by pushing home a cross from Silva with his right foot. Sweden looked un-phased when they immediately almost got one back but hit the post.

Even game and Puyol injured

After Spain’s goal, the game was fairly balanced, and Sweden kept Iker Casillas busy. With an injured right leg, Carles Puyol asked to be replaced in the 24th minute, and Albiol substituted him. Sweden got to look stronger, and in the 33rd minute Ibrahimovic managed to control a cross and slotted the ball home. The Swedes dominated the game from then till the half-time whistle blew.

Second half without Barça players

The two sides were evenly matched in the opening part of the second half. In the 57th minute, Spanish coach Luis Aragonés substituted both remaining Barça players Xavi and Iniesta for Cesc Fàbregas and Cazorla respectively. After a spell of little goalmouth action for Spain, Aragonés’ team had three clear chances, but neither Silva, Villa nor Torres were able to put their side back ahead. Though from then on, Spain had the upper hand, creating some danger in the Swedish half.

One foot in the quarter finals

In the dying minutes of the game, both teams fought to take that vital lead, and it fell to Spain to grasp it in the 92nd minute when Villa slid the ball into the corner of the net after receiving a pass from Capdevila. Thanks to this goal, Spain now has one foot in the quarter-finals.