Above is the Spain starting XI.
Below is a summary with goalscorers: Fabian (7 min), Gerard Moreno (32 min), Gerard Moreno (42 min), Rus (own goal 45 min) & Oyarzabal (90 min).
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Showing posts with label Spain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Spain. Show all posts
SPAIN 5 RUMANIA 0 | EURO 2020 GROUP F RESULT
Last EURO 2002 Group F qualifiers tonight with SPAIN hosting RUMANIA & winning 5 - 0 to secure the Top spot of their Group for direct passage to next years European Championships.
Above is the Spain starting XI.
Below is a summary with goalscorers: Fabian (7 min), Gerard Moreno (32 min), Gerard Moreno (42 min), Rus (own goal 45 min) & Oyarzabal (90 min).
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Above is the Spain starting XI.
Below is a summary with goalscorers: Fabian (7 min), Gerard Moreno (32 min), Gerard Moreno (42 min), Rus (own goal 45 min) & Oyarzabal (90 min).
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EURO 2020 | SPAIN 7 MALTA 0 - GROUP F QUALIFIER
EURO 2020 Group F qualifying match between SPAIN & MALTA played in the city of Cadiz. Spain sits comfortably at the top of the group & wants to win both games, Malta & next Mondays Rumania clash to stay first of Group F.
Here is a brief summary of events, goalscorers & final result.
Spain starting XI line up vs Malta:
Pau Lopez; Jesus Navas, Albiol, Ramos, Bernat; Rodri, Thiago, Cazorla; Sarabia, Gerard Moreno & Alvaro Morata
As expected with Malta last in the Group table & the least strong, Spain dominated all the match with the visitors putting up an ultra defensive line-up. There was up to 6 defenders in-line as Malta hopped to avoid a scandalous result & if lucky find a counter-attack that may have lead to a goal.
Malta held out the best they could most of the 1º st half only "halting" Spain down to two goals up to the 45th min.
However, the 2º half was a completely different game with Spain scoring another 5 goals. Two Spanish players debuted in the 2º half; defender PAU TORRES (Villarreal) & DANI OLMO (Dynamo Zagreb) with both scoring a goal in their debut. Good match played by Cazorla (also scored) & Gerard Moreno ( assisted on various occasions & scored a goal).
The final result could have been greater in favour of Spain but they missed more than a dozen goal opportunities, including a disallowed off-side & a post.
FINAL RESULT: SPAIN 7 - MALTA 0
Goalscorers:
1 - 0 (23´) Alvaro Morata
2 - 0 (41') Santi Cazorla
3 - 0 (62') Pau Torres
4 - 0 (63') Pablo Sarabia
5 - 0 (69') Dani Olmo
6 - 0 (71') Gerard Moreno
7 - 0 (85') Jesus Navas
Next Group match for Spain next Monday in Madrid against Rumania.
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Here is a brief summary of events, goalscorers & final result.
Spain starting XI line up vs Malta:
Pau Lopez; Jesus Navas, Albiol, Ramos, Bernat; Rodri, Thiago, Cazorla; Sarabia, Gerard Moreno & Alvaro Morata
As expected with Malta last in the Group table & the least strong, Spain dominated all the match with the visitors putting up an ultra defensive line-up. There was up to 6 defenders in-line as Malta hopped to avoid a scandalous result & if lucky find a counter-attack that may have lead to a goal.
Malta held out the best they could most of the 1º st half only "halting" Spain down to two goals up to the 45th min.
However, the 2º half was a completely different game with Spain scoring another 5 goals. Two Spanish players debuted in the 2º half; defender PAU TORRES (Villarreal) & DANI OLMO (Dynamo Zagreb) with both scoring a goal in their debut. Good match played by Cazorla (also scored) & Gerard Moreno ( assisted on various occasions & scored a goal).
The final result could have been greater in favour of Spain but they missed more than a dozen goal opportunities, including a disallowed off-side & a post.
FINAL RESULT: SPAIN 7 - MALTA 0
Goalscorers:
1 - 0 (23´) Alvaro Morata
2 - 0 (41') Santi Cazorla
3 - 0 (62') Pau Torres
4 - 0 (63') Pablo Sarabia
5 - 0 (69') Dani Olmo
6 - 0 (71') Gerard Moreno
7 - 0 (85') Jesus Navas
Next Group match for Spain next Monday in Madrid against Rumania.
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SWEDEN 1 SPAIN 1 | EURO 2020 GROUP RESULT
EURO 2020 Group qualifiers continued tonight with SPAIN travelling to SWEDEN. The Spanish National Football team needed a draw tonight to get the sufficient points to automatically get their ticket to the Euro Championships. Here is a short summary with goalscorers & the final result.
The above image shows the starting SPAIN XI team, with Carvajal, De Gea, Thiago, Gerard, Iñigo Martinez & Rodri getting a run. Sergio Ramos was out suspended after receiving a yellow card in Norway, his 5th.
The great start of Spain, which was able to get quickly three very clear occasions (especially a hand to hand with Thiago) which gradually gave way to the reaction of Sweden. The local team had a very clear idea; defend, use the counter-attack & their superior physical strenght. The Swedes got stronger & Spanish goalie David De Gea had to make a fabulous save from a Quaison header to avoid the 1 - 0 in the 32nd min. Later on Spanish defender Iñigo Martinez also had to intervene to avoid a Swede goal.
The second half started with Sweden getting ahead 1 - 0 in the 49th min through BERG after De Gea made two saves. Things get complicated for Spain which was looking for the equalizer & at the same time creating spaces for Sweden. The local side created many goal opportunities, of which one of those De Gea was injured & was replaced by Kepa. The clock kept ticking & the nerves set into the Spanish Game, which made Spanish Coach Moreno put on Rodrigo Moreno & Jesus Navas to be more vertical. It paid off.
In the 92nd min a Spanish corner found Fabian who crossed hard into the square to find the tap on of forward RODRIGO who equalized. Spain saved at the last moment with a final disappointed Sweden team which had fought hard & played well all game.
The result qualified Spain automatically for the upcoming EURO 2020 Championships.
FINAL RESULT: SWEDEN 1 - SPAIN 1
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The above image shows the starting SPAIN XI team, with Carvajal, De Gea, Thiago, Gerard, Iñigo Martinez & Rodri getting a run. Sergio Ramos was out suspended after receiving a yellow card in Norway, his 5th.
The great start of Spain, which was able to get quickly three very clear occasions (especially a hand to hand with Thiago) which gradually gave way to the reaction of Sweden. The local team had a very clear idea; defend, use the counter-attack & their superior physical strenght. The Swedes got stronger & Spanish goalie David De Gea had to make a fabulous save from a Quaison header to avoid the 1 - 0 in the 32nd min. Later on Spanish defender Iñigo Martinez also had to intervene to avoid a Swede goal.
The second half started with Sweden getting ahead 1 - 0 in the 49th min through BERG after De Gea made two saves. Things get complicated for Spain which was looking for the equalizer & at the same time creating spaces for Sweden. The local side created many goal opportunities, of which one of those De Gea was injured & was replaced by Kepa. The clock kept ticking & the nerves set into the Spanish Game, which made Spanish Coach Moreno put on Rodrigo Moreno & Jesus Navas to be more vertical. It paid off.
In the 92nd min a Spanish corner found Fabian who crossed hard into the square to find the tap on of forward RODRIGO who equalized. Spain saved at the last moment with a final disappointed Sweden team which had fought hard & played well all game.
The result qualified Spain automatically for the upcoming EURO 2020 Championships.
FINAL RESULT: SWEDEN 1 - SPAIN 1
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SPAIN 4 FAROE ISLANDS 0 | EURO 2020 RESULT
SPAIN hosted FAROE ISLANDS in Gijon (Spain) for their Group F EURO 2020 Qualifier. The final result being 4 - 0 victory for Spain further consolidating their Top Spot in the Group.
Only Sergio Ramos & Rodrigo Moreno started in the Spain XI after last Wednesday match against Romania with the rest getting a run from the bench. Spanish Captain Sergio Ramos equalled the International Caps record along with Iker Casillas of 166 games for Spain. It's obvious Ramos will surpass this figure to take the most Internationally Capped player records in the near future.
The whole match was dominated by Spain which attacked while Faroe Islands defended & looked for a counter-attack opportunity. Spain continuously kept smashing against the Faroe Island defensive wall but managed to score through RODRIGO MORENO who scored twice in the 13 th & 51st min.
The only real chance to pull a goal back for Faroe Islands came in the 73th min through a counter-attack that was stopped by DE GEA when the opposition player fired at goal.
Little more to add from here as Spain kept looking to add to the scoreline & did so when substitute PACO ALCACER scored the 3rd & 4th for Spain in the 89th min & the 92nd min.
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Only Sergio Ramos & Rodrigo Moreno started in the Spain XI after last Wednesday match against Romania with the rest getting a run from the bench. Spanish Captain Sergio Ramos equalled the International Caps record along with Iker Casillas of 166 games for Spain. It's obvious Ramos will surpass this figure to take the most Internationally Capped player records in the near future.
The whole match was dominated by Spain which attacked while Faroe Islands defended & looked for a counter-attack opportunity. Spain continuously kept smashing against the Faroe Island defensive wall but managed to score through RODRIGO MORENO who scored twice in the 13 th & 51st min.
The only real chance to pull a goal back for Faroe Islands came in the 73th min through a counter-attack that was stopped by DE GEA when the opposition player fired at goal.
Little more to add from here as Spain kept looking to add to the scoreline & did so when substitute PACO ALCACER scored the 3rd & 4th for Spain in the 89th min & the 92nd min.
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UEFA EURO 2020 | SPAIN IN GROUP F
The Group draw was held this morning at UEFA HQ for the upcoming EURO 2020 competition & Finals. SPAIN has been drawn in Group F along with Sweden, Norway, Romania, Faroe Islands & Malta.
Match Calendar:
Round 1: 21 - 23 March 2019
Round 2: 24 - 26 March de 2019
Round 3: 7 - 8 June de 2019
Round 4: 10 - 11 June de 2019
Round 5: 5 - 7 September de 2019
Round 6: 8 - 10 September de 2019
Round 7: 10 - 12 October de 2019
Round 8: 13 - 15 October de 2019
Round 9: 14 - 16 November de 2019
Round 10: 17 - 19 November de 2019
EURO 2020 finals; from 12th June to 12th July 2020
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Match Calendar:
Round 1: 21 - 23 March 2019
Round 2: 24 - 26 March de 2019
Round 3: 7 - 8 June de 2019
Round 4: 10 - 11 June de 2019
Round 5: 5 - 7 September de 2019
Round 6: 8 - 10 September de 2019
Round 7: 10 - 12 October de 2019
Round 8: 13 - 15 October de 2019
Round 9: 14 - 16 November de 2019
Round 10: 17 - 19 November de 2019
EURO 2020 finals; from 12th June to 12th July 2020
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SPAIN 1 BOSNIA HERZEGOVINA 0 | INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY
SPAIN hosted BOSNIA in Las Palmas (Canary Is.) for an International Friendly match tonight. Spain puts its planning horizon towards the top priority of qualifying for the EURO 20 competition after their opportunity of gaining a place in next summer's UEFA Nations League Top 4 Final disappeared when England won Croatia 2 -1 this afternoon at Wembley.
Selector & Coach Luis Enrique has commented that his objective is to reconstruct the Spanish National Football Team by introducing slowly young promising players with the Top objective being a place in the EURO 2020 tournament.
Tonight was the start of the reconstruction process giving the habitual substitutes a run & some newcomers a chance to debut with the National Team.
The starting 11 players for Spain were:
Kepa; Jonny, Llorente, Hermoso, Gaya; Dani Ceballos, Rodri, Isco; Suso, Alvaro Morata & Marco Asensio.
The only two players repeating from the last game against Croatia was Ceballos & Isco, the last Captain tonight & played the full 90 minutes.
Spain dominated most of the match reaching 70-75% ball possession, but as their "A Team" team-mates there was a lack of effectiveness in front of goal. Asensio & Morata had their chances but it seems clear that neither are in their best form. It was frustrating to watch how Spain reached the Bosnian goal area but failed to convert time after time.
Bosnia did created their own chances, some dangerous, but overall they did not trouble the Spanish goalkeeper, firstly Kepa & later substitute Pau Lopez, most of the encounter.
Spanish Coach Luis Enrique took the opportunity to give new players a run & a chance to debut for Spain in the 2º half. One of those players BRAIS MENDEZ managed to score the only & winning goal tonight in the 78th min. Big night for the Celta de Vigo 21 year old offensive midfielder who will remember his debut with "La Roja" all his life.
Apart from this highlight overall an average performance by Spain which disappointed somewhat in their final finishing. Coach Luis Enrique & his staff has work ahead.
FINAL RESULT: SPAIN 1 BOSNIA 0
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Selector & Coach Luis Enrique has commented that his objective is to reconstruct the Spanish National Football Team by introducing slowly young promising players with the Top objective being a place in the EURO 2020 tournament.
Tonight was the start of the reconstruction process giving the habitual substitutes a run & some newcomers a chance to debut with the National Team.
The starting 11 players for Spain were:
Kepa; Jonny, Llorente, Hermoso, Gaya; Dani Ceballos, Rodri, Isco; Suso, Alvaro Morata & Marco Asensio.
The only two players repeating from the last game against Croatia was Ceballos & Isco, the last Captain tonight & played the full 90 minutes.
Spain dominated most of the match reaching 70-75% ball possession, but as their "A Team" team-mates there was a lack of effectiveness in front of goal. Asensio & Morata had their chances but it seems clear that neither are in their best form. It was frustrating to watch how Spain reached the Bosnian goal area but failed to convert time after time.
Bosnia did created their own chances, some dangerous, but overall they did not trouble the Spanish goalkeeper, firstly Kepa & later substitute Pau Lopez, most of the encounter.
Spanish Coach Luis Enrique took the opportunity to give new players a run & a chance to debut for Spain in the 2º half. One of those players BRAIS MENDEZ managed to score the only & winning goal tonight in the 78th min. Big night for the Celta de Vigo 21 year old offensive midfielder who will remember his debut with "La Roja" all his life.
Apart from this highlight overall an average performance by Spain which disappointed somewhat in their final finishing. Coach Luis Enrique & his staff has work ahead.
FINAL RESULT: SPAIN 1 BOSNIA 0
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CROATIA 3 SPAIN 2 | UEFA NATIONS LEAGUE
SPAIN had to win tonight to access automatically into the final 4 stage of the UEFA NATIONS LEAGUE Top 4 Finals but complicated their chances, & negatively, after being defeated 3 - 2 by CROATIA in Zagreb.
Spain now has to sit & wait for the outcome of the England - Croatia clash to see if they continue on, a victory by England or Croatia with give them respectively the ticket through to the Top 4 Finals
Spain now has to sit & wait for the outcome of the England - Croatia clash to see if they continue on, a victory by England or Croatia with give them respectively the ticket through to the Top 4 Finals
Spain started with the following starting 11 team as the above & below photo highlights.
The Croatians in front of their home crowd were nothing like the team which Spain defeat by 6 goals in the 1ºst game. While Spain attempted to play its traditional touch ball & dominating Football, Croatia was lead by a midfield Master in the name of Modric, was rapid & very vertical. Spain was on the back foot from the kick-off & Croatia did not mind later to wait & defend. Spanish goalkeeper DE GEA made a save on the right post from a Persic shot worth a mention.
Spain slowly crawled back into action towards the last 15 mins of the 1ºst half & created some goal chances but kept smashing into the Croatian wall.
The 2º half was spectacular & hats must be taken off to both sides. Spain lifted in their play & Croatia waited for errors to occur to then counter-attack. Plus Spain in their need to score & find a victory tonight left spaces in their defence that were exploited by Croatia to score their goals. All the goals occurred in the 2º half :
1 - 0 (54') Andrej Kramaric
1 - 1 (56') Dani Ceballos
2 - 1 (69') Tin Jedvaj
2 - 2 (78'pen.) Sergio Ramos
3 - 2 (93') Tin Jedvaj
...including a penalty to Spain that evened things. But in the last moment Croatia got the winner.
It was end to end & see-saw as Spain attacked, hit the post (Aspas) & missed some clear goal opportunities. But Croatia with speed & very direct attack which found spaces & depth managing to comeback & score in the crucial moments.
Lastly both goalkeepers deserve a mention, Kalinic for Croatia for his important interventions & De Gea who deviated an almost certain goal from Rebic in latter part of the 2º half.
Looked at the match globally Croatia deserved their victory & managed to win back some lost pride. Spain will be disappointed as they again fell into their own "control Football trap" (need to be more direct) & again missed some very clear opportunities. Some Spanish names could have given something more; Saul, Rodrigo, Morata (when on)... but you can't have it all every time.
FINAL RESULT : CROATIA 3 - SPAIN 2
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SPAIN 2 MOROCCO 2 | SPAIN GROUP B LEADER IN HORRIBLE MATCH
SPAIN drew 2 - 2 with MOROCCO in their last match of Group B to qualify for the next phase of the FIFA World Cup Championship. Spain was sitting in 2º position which would have matched them up against Uruguay, but a last minute penalty to Iran in the other Group game was scored to give a 1 - 1 result to Portugal which then relegated them to the 2º position. All this dramatic events, including a last moment goal to Spain given by the "VAR", altered things in such a way that Spain will face Russia next Sunday being Group B top spot holder.
While most observers are still digesting the last minute changes, what is unanimous is that Spain played their worst match of the World Cup. The team has serious defensive problems & their is a lack of goal power upfront. Added to this some "scared cows" are looking slow along with goalkeeper De Gea which is lacking confidence. Spain is vulnerable to counter-attacks & in goal square headers which is putting in doubt what was previously considered the best pair of Central Defenders in World Football: Pique & Ramos.
In fact the Moroccan first goal came early in the 4th min when Boutaïb took advantage of a disastrous misunderstanding between Iniesta & Ramos. There was more defensive mistakes to come, like a near goal from a throw in that Pique shallowed, passing mistakes from midfielders give the ball to Moroccan attackers, Amrabat hitting the bar & the header second goal from Morocco in the 80th min from En-Nesyri.
Spain was losing most of the second half & was desperate with their Football, something not habitual & certainly not confidence building at all for the team. Luckly, ISCO was on fire as he has been all three matches to create opportunities & score. His was the 18th min equalizer to calm things & redeem earlier mistakes.
The other piece of lucky was the 90th min goal by substitute ASPAS who scored but was initially disallowed. While Spain faced defeat, the VAR intervened to give the Aspas goal & allow Spain to draw the encounter in the very last moment.
Another area of hot debut is the reaction or lack of reaction by Spanish Coach Fernando Hierro to move the bench when things are going badly. The changes need to be made sooner, however Hierro seems to be "frozen" without ideas on how to redirect the situations. Here again luck has played it part & has diluted the negative impact of the lack of decision making by the Spanish Coach.
The future does not look bright at all for Spain in this tournament. The odds are more stacked at being eliminated sooner ( against Russia next Sunday) tan later. Play like they are with a horrendous defence will not get them into the World Cup Final. I hope I am totally wrong, but Spain gave more reasons for everyone to be pessimistic than optimistic at this moment. Horrible match by Spain , lucky result.
As for Morocco, great performance & grit. They played their Football optimizing efficiently their "weapons", it nearly paid off for them in a historical near victory!
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While most observers are still digesting the last minute changes, what is unanimous is that Spain played their worst match of the World Cup. The team has serious defensive problems & their is a lack of goal power upfront. Added to this some "scared cows" are looking slow along with goalkeeper De Gea which is lacking confidence. Spain is vulnerable to counter-attacks & in goal square headers which is putting in doubt what was previously considered the best pair of Central Defenders in World Football: Pique & Ramos.
In fact the Moroccan first goal came early in the 4th min when Boutaïb took advantage of a disastrous misunderstanding between Iniesta & Ramos. There was more defensive mistakes to come, like a near goal from a throw in that Pique shallowed, passing mistakes from midfielders give the ball to Moroccan attackers, Amrabat hitting the bar & the header second goal from Morocco in the 80th min from En-Nesyri.
Spain was losing most of the second half & was desperate with their Football, something not habitual & certainly not confidence building at all for the team. Luckly, ISCO was on fire as he has been all three matches to create opportunities & score. His was the 18th min equalizer to calm things & redeem earlier mistakes.
The other piece of lucky was the 90th min goal by substitute ASPAS who scored but was initially disallowed. While Spain faced defeat, the VAR intervened to give the Aspas goal & allow Spain to draw the encounter in the very last moment.
Another area of hot debut is the reaction or lack of reaction by Spanish Coach Fernando Hierro to move the bench when things are going badly. The changes need to be made sooner, however Hierro seems to be "frozen" without ideas on how to redirect the situations. Here again luck has played it part & has diluted the negative impact of the lack of decision making by the Spanish Coach.
The future does not look bright at all for Spain in this tournament. The odds are more stacked at being eliminated sooner ( against Russia next Sunday) tan later. Play like they are with a horrendous defence will not get them into the World Cup Final. I hope I am totally wrong, but Spain gave more reasons for everyone to be pessimistic than optimistic at this moment. Horrible match by Spain , lucky result.
As for Morocco, great performance & grit. They played their Football optimizing efficiently their "weapons", it nearly paid off for them in a historical near victory!
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SPAIN 1 - IRAN 0 | GROUP B RESULT FIFA WORLD CUP 2018
SPAIN has defeated 1 - 0 IRAN in their Group B match tonight in Kazan (Russia). A very difficult encounter for the Spanish Team against a rocky, sticky & ultra defensive Iran that gave Spain troubles the whole match. Iran knew their game plan on how to neutralize the Spanish ball possession & their higher quality players: defend with all 11 men. A draw for Spain was useless & Iran had the upper hand with 3 points after defeating Morocco in their Group opener.
In fact, Spain will give thanks to the introduction of the "VAR Technology" which disallowed an offside goal in the second half to Iran which would have been a disaster for Spain if allowed. This event helps explain how difficult & awkward this match was for Spain as they walked on the "knife edge" on various occasions throughout the 2º half.
Spain anticipated that Iran would defeat & attempt the counter-attack & thus started with Carvajal & Lucas Vazquez to try to open up Iran on their left flank. However, the Iranians were solid everywhere defensively allowing Spain the control of the ball and smashing continuously into their defensive wall ( or Trap ) to increase the frustration levels for the Spaniards. Added to all this Iran complemented their game with "time wasting" tactics from apparent non-fouls, shoe laces, ball going astray, goalkeeper taking his time etc etc, the whole array of time consuming ideas was witnessed.
It took 55 mins to open the Iranian can & with luck for Spain to score a goal ( the winning goal) after the ball rebound of an Iranian defender onto the knee off DIEGO COSTA. Witnessing how the game was developing this is as valid as a clear open shot for Spain was clearly not seeing the light in the tunnel up until this "small miracle".
Miraculously, Iran changed "game plan" for this point & for the first time went forward looking for the equalizer that would give them a secure opportunity of advancing in the World Cup, while almost certainly eliminating Spain. The Iranians nearly found their "goal" on various occasions putting the heart up the throats for most Spaniards watching TV back home.
In the 73rd min Iranian midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi put the ball into the Spanish net after a free-kick & multiple defensive fumbles. However Saeid was off-side & while Iran was celebrating the referee had consulted the "VAR" & disallowed the goal. Spain saved by the technology, those who did not like it will now have to love the technology.
Both Coaches made their changes with Spain securing further the midfield with Koke (Iniesta), giving legs with Asensio (off Vazquez) & winning time with Rodrigo (off Costa), while Iran looked for the equalizer putting on offensive players.
In the end, Spain managed to control the situation, the Iranian attacks & their nerves by controlling the ball which is precisely what they do best. The final whistle blew & all of Spain sighed relief as this was a "close one". Iran played well tonight they knew their limitations & put forward their strategy, a plan that nearly paid off for them. They too came close to their objective.
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In fact, Spain will give thanks to the introduction of the "VAR Technology" which disallowed an offside goal in the second half to Iran which would have been a disaster for Spain if allowed. This event helps explain how difficult & awkward this match was for Spain as they walked on the "knife edge" on various occasions throughout the 2º half.
Spain anticipated that Iran would defeat & attempt the counter-attack & thus started with Carvajal & Lucas Vazquez to try to open up Iran on their left flank. However, the Iranians were solid everywhere defensively allowing Spain the control of the ball and smashing continuously into their defensive wall ( or Trap ) to increase the frustration levels for the Spaniards. Added to all this Iran complemented their game with "time wasting" tactics from apparent non-fouls, shoe laces, ball going astray, goalkeeper taking his time etc etc, the whole array of time consuming ideas was witnessed.
It took 55 mins to open the Iranian can & with luck for Spain to score a goal ( the winning goal) after the ball rebound of an Iranian defender onto the knee off DIEGO COSTA. Witnessing how the game was developing this is as valid as a clear open shot for Spain was clearly not seeing the light in the tunnel up until this "small miracle".
Miraculously, Iran changed "game plan" for this point & for the first time went forward looking for the equalizer that would give them a secure opportunity of advancing in the World Cup, while almost certainly eliminating Spain. The Iranians nearly found their "goal" on various occasions putting the heart up the throats for most Spaniards watching TV back home.
In the 73rd min Iranian midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi put the ball into the Spanish net after a free-kick & multiple defensive fumbles. However Saeid was off-side & while Iran was celebrating the referee had consulted the "VAR" & disallowed the goal. Spain saved by the technology, those who did not like it will now have to love the technology.
Both Coaches made their changes with Spain securing further the midfield with Koke (Iniesta), giving legs with Asensio (off Vazquez) & winning time with Rodrigo (off Costa), while Iran looked for the equalizer putting on offensive players.
In the end, Spain managed to control the situation, the Iranian attacks & their nerves by controlling the ball which is precisely what they do best. The final whistle blew & all of Spain sighed relief as this was a "close one". Iran played well tonight they knew their limitations & put forward their strategy, a plan that nearly paid off for them. They too came close to their objective.
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SPAIN | FIFA WORLD CUP 2018 GROUP B WITH PORTUGAL, MOROCCO & IRAN
The Group match ups for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2018 in Russia next Summer have been celebrated this evening from Moscow. As for SPAIN they have been drawn for Group B along with current European Champions & Group head Portugal, Morocco & Iran.
Beforehand, it would seem that both Spain & Portugal look favourites to get the top two spots of the Group so as to advance. However, the history of this competition shows us time after time surprises do occur. For Spain the opening match against Portugal in the 15th of June 2018 (at Sotchi) will be vital so as to set a "comfortable" rhythm" for the rest of their games.
Below is the full draw with all match ups: Group A - H ( click image to expand).
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Beforehand, it would seem that both Spain & Portugal look favourites to get the top two spots of the Group so as to advance. However, the history of this competition shows us time after time surprises do occur. For Spain the opening match against Portugal in the 15th of June 2018 (at Sotchi) will be vital so as to set a "comfortable" rhythm" for the rest of their games.
Below is the full draw with all match ups: Group A - H ( click image to expand).
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SPAIN 5 - COSTA RICA 0 | INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY
SPAIN played COSTA RICA tonight in a Friendly International in the Spanish city of Malaga. The final result was 5 - 0 victory for the local side. Total domination by Spain which experienced just a couple of chances to the visitors which failed to convert their limited goal opportunities.
The starting 11 team for Spain was:
In the second half Spanish players Batra, Nacho, Asensio, Aspas, Saul & Luis Alberto got a run. Good warm up match for Spain as they begin planning for next years World Cup finals in Russia.
The names to highlight was DAVID SILVIA who put in a blinder with two goals & ISCO who was magical until taken off mid second half after a hard tackle from WASTON. The Real Madrid player will undergo medical checks but it looks like a knock at this stage & may be able to play next weekend clash against Atletico de Madrid.
The goalscorers tonight were:
The starting 11 team for Spain was:
In the second half Spanish players Batra, Nacho, Asensio, Aspas, Saul & Luis Alberto got a run. Good warm up match for Spain as they begin planning for next years World Cup finals in Russia.
The names to highlight was DAVID SILVIA who put in a blinder with two goals & ISCO who was magical until taken off mid second half after a hard tackle from WASTON. The Real Madrid player will undergo medical checks but it looks like a knock at this stage & may be able to play next weekend clash against Atletico de Madrid.
The goalscorers tonight were:
- Jordi Alba 6th min , 1 - 0
- Alvaro Morata 22nd min, 2 - 0
- David Silva 51 st min, 3 -0
- David Silva 55th min, 4 - 0
- Andres Iniesta 73rd min, 5 - 0
Spain will continue with their International preparation games next Tuesday when they travel to St Petersburg to play Russia.
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THE 60 MOST PROMISING YOUNG FOOTBALLERS | 4 SPANIARDS
The UK daily "The Guardian" has published their list of the 60 most talented young Footballers from around the World. They title it the "Next Generation 2017" ( all born in the year 2000) from where they predict will appear the next "Greal Soccer Star" & the highlight the generation which can rule the Football World in the next 15 years.
Included are 4 Spanish born Footabll younsters: Antonio Blanco & Miguel Baeza (Real Madrid), Abel Ruiz (FC Barcelona) & Ferran Torres (Valencia).
However, their biggest prediction, their bet as the next "BIG THING" is Brazialian VINICIUS JUNIOR, player already signed by REAL MADRID CF.
Here is the full list, not in any specific order:
Follow these names!
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Included are 4 Spanish born Footabll younsters: Antonio Blanco & Miguel Baeza (Real Madrid), Abel Ruiz (FC Barcelona) & Ferran Torres (Valencia).
However, their biggest prediction, their bet as the next "BIG THING" is Brazialian VINICIUS JUNIOR, player already signed by REAL MADRID CF.
Here is the full list, not in any specific order:
Follow these names!
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SPAIN | FIFA RANKING
FIFA has released (updated) their monthly ranking with Spain in the 11 th position. Germany regains the Nº1 spot position after Brazil drops a slot, while Portugal jumps to the Nº3 position. Notable drop in ranking is Italy which falls to the Nº17 position after losing against Spain in their World Cup group qualifier on the 2nd of septiembre.
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SPAIN DEFEATS LIECHTENSTEIN 0 - 8 | WORLD CUP 2018 QUALIFIER
Spain defeated 0 - 8 Liechtenstein away in their World Cup 2018 Group qualifier to take another positive step forward towards qualification. The main objective is to remain top of the Group which gives the direct ticket to Russia 2018. Spain has two more matches against Albania & Israel next month that in theory should be accessible.
With due respects to Liechtenstein, it was a "walk in the park" for Spain which had peaks of 80% ball possession. Complete domination from the start until finish with Spain comfortable enough to play with just 3 defenders which spent more time in the forward line. In fact Sergio Ramos opened the scoreline in the 2º minute which said it all.
The goal scorers:
With due respects to Liechtenstein, it was a "walk in the park" for Spain which had peaks of 80% ball possession. Complete domination from the start until finish with Spain comfortable enough to play with just 3 defenders which spent more time in the forward line. In fact Sergio Ramos opened the scoreline in the 2º minute which said it all.
The goal scorers:
- Sergio Ramos 2nd min, 0 - 1
- Morata 14th min, 0 - 2
- Isco 15th min , 0 - 3
- David Silva (free-kick) 38th min , 0 - 4
- Aspas 50th min, 0 - 5
- Morata 53rd min , 0 - 6
- Aspas 62nd min , 0 - 7
- Goppel (own goal) 88th min, 0 - 8
SPAIN 3 - ITALY 0 | U-21 INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY MATCH
The Spanish National U-21 team managed to get back at Italy in tonights Friendly International played in Toledo (Spain). Spain defeated Italy 3 - 0 with the recent memory of the last U-21 European Championship Final where Italy beat Spain & took the title.
The starting 11 for Spain:
Spain has new "blood" in their squad as they gear up for the next U-21 Euros to be held in Italy. The new comers did magnificently & Spain basically dominated events with the Italians creating some goal opportunities that were well handled by Spanish goalkeeper & defence. Deserved victory for Spain.
Goals:
22' Goooooalllllll Spain by Mikel Merino
45' Gooooooallllll Spain. Goooooalllll by Borja Mayoral.
81' Gooooalllllllll Spain. Gooooooooalllllll by Jorge Meré (header).
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The starting 11 for Spain:
Spain has new "blood" in their squad as they gear up for the next U-21 Euros to be held in Italy. The new comers did magnificently & Spain basically dominated events with the Italians creating some goal opportunities that were well handled by Spanish goalkeeper & defence. Deserved victory for Spain.
Goals:
22' Goooooalllllll Spain by Mikel Merino
45' Gooooooallllll Spain. Goooooalllll by Borja Mayoral.
81' Gooooalllllllll Spain. Gooooooooalllllll by Jorge Meré (header).
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SPAIN DRAWS 2 - 2 WITH ENGLAND | INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY
Spain played tonight England at "Wembley Stadium" in an International Friendly. The final result as 2 - 2 draw with Spain managing the equalizer in the last minute. Not the best game from Spain with Coach Lopetegui giving a run to players who usually pass more time watching the regulars from the bench: Reina, Iñigo Martinez, Azpilicueta, Mata, Aduriz...
England was more aggressive & quicker, especially in the counter-attacks. The Spanish defence was sloppy & full of mistakes, with defender Iñigo Martinez not sharp at all tonight who apart did not "glue" with defensive partner Nacho. The Spanish midfield was lacking in concentration & gave away too many balls to the English players.
Both English goals:
The positive piece tonight for Spain was their 2º half attitude. Far from lowering their heads substitutes Aspas & Isco ended up saving the night. While England defended solidly all night, two flashes of individual class broke through & equalized the encounter:
England was more aggressive & quicker, especially in the counter-attacks. The Spanish defence was sloppy & full of mistakes, with defender Iñigo Martinez not sharp at all tonight who apart did not "glue" with defensive partner Nacho. The Spanish midfield was lacking in concentration & gave away too many balls to the English players.
Both English goals:
- Lallana (penalty) 10th min
- Vardy 48th min
both came from quick vertical attacks that caught the Spaniards sleeping.
The positive piece tonight for Spain was their 2º half attitude. Far from lowering their heads substitutes Aspas & Isco ended up saving the night. While England defended solidly all night, two flashes of individual class broke through & equalized the encounter:
- Aspas 89th min
- Isco 95th min
Two goals "out of the blue" that soften the blow and managed to put some shine into a very poor Spanish match performance.
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SPAIN 4 MACEDONIA 0 | WORLD CUP 2018 QUALIFIER
Spain played Macedonia tonight in their World Cup 2018 Group qualifier. The top Group spot is closely contended along with Italy & a win tonight was important for Spain to maintain the prized position. While Italy won their group game, Spain managed a 4 - 0 victory over Macedonia to stay on top.
Spain has some injuries of their regular players like Ramos, Pique, Alba, Iniesta etc., & put forward the following starting 11:
De Gea, Carvajal, Bartra, Nacho, Monreal, Busquets, Thiago, Koke, Vitolo, Silva & Morata.
David Silva was Captain tonight & exercised it well being the main play-maker along with Thiago. Macedonia was very defensive & was difficult to break most of the game even though Spain had up to 70% of ball domination.
Spain was finally rewarded for their efforts in the 34th min when Macedonia defender Velkoski scored an own goal which put Spain in front.
Macedonia did have some goal opportunities created from their counter-attacks but the Spanish defenders & goalie David De Gea managed to neutralise their sporadic dangerous attacks.
The second goal for Spain came from Vitolo in the 63rd min which settled things for the home side. Spanish Coach Lopetegui then made some chances bringing on Aduriz, Isco & Callejon & more goals came the home team´s way.
The third was scored in the 84th min through Monreal & quickly the fourth through Aduriz in the 85th min to close the match & secure the three points.
Next match against England next week in an International friendly game.
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Spain has some injuries of their regular players like Ramos, Pique, Alba, Iniesta etc., & put forward the following starting 11:
De Gea, Carvajal, Bartra, Nacho, Monreal, Busquets, Thiago, Koke, Vitolo, Silva & Morata.
David Silva was Captain tonight & exercised it well being the main play-maker along with Thiago. Macedonia was very defensive & was difficult to break most of the game even though Spain had up to 70% of ball domination.
Spain was finally rewarded for their efforts in the 34th min when Macedonia defender Velkoski scored an own goal which put Spain in front.
Macedonia did have some goal opportunities created from their counter-attacks but the Spanish defenders & goalie David De Gea managed to neutralise their sporadic dangerous attacks.
The second goal for Spain came from Vitolo in the 63rd min which settled things for the home side. Spanish Coach Lopetegui then made some chances bringing on Aduriz, Isco & Callejon & more goals came the home team´s way.
The third was scored in the 84th min through Monreal & quickly the fourth through Aduriz in the 85th min to close the match & secure the three points.
Next match against England next week in an International friendly game.
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SPAIN DEFEATS 0 - 2 ALBANIA | WORLD CUP 2018 QUALIFIER
Important victory away from home for Spain defeating a difficult Albania 0 - 2. The home team has improved immensely in the past years & had a very clear game plan to attempt halt the Spanish Football Team. Their ultra-defensive set-up only lasted until the 54th min when Spain finally opened up the Albanian defence.
The win puts Spain on Top of the Group table & puts all the pressure on the other 4 teams.
Spain dominated the whole match with ball possession staying regularly around the 70% mark. The first half was frustrating as Spain could not score with a good Albanian goalkeeper & a solid well placed Albania with up to 5 midfielders. Their intentions were very clear, they placed only one player as forward.
The outstanding players were Andres Iniesta & David Silvia, along with Vitolo.
The opening goal for Spain came in the 54th min from a goalkeeper clearing mistake that found Vitolo who passed to Silva who in turn found Diego Costa to score. Spain then brought on Nolito & he scored almost immediately in the 62th min after nice individual play.
The only bad news for Spain was the apparent knee injury of Sergio Ramos who fell awkwardly & may have sprained his knee. Said this, the defender will need to undergo further examination to determine the fully extent of the injury.
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The win puts Spain on Top of the Group table & puts all the pressure on the other 4 teams.
Spain dominated the whole match with ball possession staying regularly around the 70% mark. The first half was frustrating as Spain could not score with a good Albanian goalkeeper & a solid well placed Albania with up to 5 midfielders. Their intentions were very clear, they placed only one player as forward.
The outstanding players were Andres Iniesta & David Silvia, along with Vitolo.
The opening goal for Spain came in the 54th min from a goalkeeper clearing mistake that found Vitolo who passed to Silva who in turn found Diego Costa to score. Spain then brought on Nolito & he scored almost immediately in the 62th min after nice individual play.
The only bad news for Spain was the apparent knee injury of Sergio Ramos who fell awkwardly & may have sprained his knee. Said this, the defender will need to undergo further examination to determine the fully extent of the injury.
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SPANISH FOOTBALL TEAM FOR ITALY & ALBANIA QUALIFIERS
Spain National Football Team Selector & Coach Julen Lupetegui handed in his list of 23 players for the upcoming FiFA World Cup 2018 Group qualifiers. Top Group match next 6th of October in Turin against Italy, while on the 9th of October Spain plays Albania away.
Goalkeeper Adrian, defender Bartra, Azpilicueta, Mata, Asensio & Alcacer, get dropped from the last call-up list. Andres Iniesta, Sergio Rico, Isco & Jose Callejon get back into the Spain Football Squad.
FULL SPAIN FOOTBALL PLAYERS:
Goalkeepers: David de Gea (Manchester United), Pepe Reina (Nápoles) & Sergio Rico (Sevilla).
Defenders: Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Gerard Piqué (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Sergi Roberto (Barcelona), Nacho (Real Madrid) & Javi Martínez (Bayern).
Midfielders: Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), David Silva (Manchester City), Thiago Alcántara (Bayern), Saúl Ñíguez (Atlético Madrid), Koke (Atlético Madrid), Isco (Real Madrid) & Iniesta (Barcelona).
Forwards: Álvaro Morata (Real Madrid), Lucas Vázquez (Real Madrid), Nolito (Manchester City), Jose Callejón (Nápoles), Diego Costa (Chelsea) & Vitolo (Sevilla).
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Goalkeeper Adrian, defender Bartra, Azpilicueta, Mata, Asensio & Alcacer, get dropped from the last call-up list. Andres Iniesta, Sergio Rico, Isco & Jose Callejon get back into the Spain Football Squad.
FULL SPAIN FOOTBALL PLAYERS:
Goalkeepers: David de Gea (Manchester United), Pepe Reina (Nápoles) & Sergio Rico (Sevilla).
Defenders: Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Gerard Piqué (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Sergi Roberto (Barcelona), Nacho (Real Madrid) & Javi Martínez (Bayern).
Midfielders: Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), David Silva (Manchester City), Thiago Alcántara (Bayern), Saúl Ñíguez (Atlético Madrid), Koke (Atlético Madrid), Isco (Real Madrid) & Iniesta (Barcelona).
Forwards: Álvaro Morata (Real Madrid), Lucas Vázquez (Real Madrid), Nolito (Manchester City), Jose Callejón (Nápoles), Diego Costa (Chelsea) & Vitolo (Sevilla).
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SPAIN 8 - LIECHTENSTEIN 0 | WORLD CUP 2018 GROUP RESULT
Good start for Spain on the road for the FIFA World Cup Championships in Russia 2018. SPAIN defeated Liechtenstein 8 - 0 in their Group qualifier opening match played tonight in the Spanish city of Leon.
Coach Julen Lopetegui started with the below 11 which included Sergi Roberto, Vitolo & Diego Costa from the beginning.
Liechtenstein came into this game to defend & put their whole team in their own half hoping to maximise on the mistakes that Spain may force. The fact is they held out until the 10th min when Diego Costa headed the first goal. To the visitors merit they held Spain goalless until the 55th min when it began to rain Spanish goals.
Here are all the goals & goalscorers:
1-0 Diego Costa (10')
2-0 Sergi Roberto(55')
3-0 Silva(59')
4-0 Vitolo (60')
5-0 Diego Costa (66')
6-0 Morata (82')
7-0 Morata (83')
8-0 Silva (91)
Diego Costa & Morata got two goals each.
Spanish Coach Lopetegui gave young Real Madrid star Marco Asensio his official debut with the "A side" in the 80th min, shutting any chance Holland may have had in calling up the player for their own National Team. The mother of Marco Asensio is Dutch & there was a possibility that Holland could have "snatched" up the rising star.
Spain gets the three points & a good goal advantage which maybe important when qualifying. The first position of the Group gives direct qualification for Russia 2018 & the Group has complicated opponents like Italy.
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Coach Julen Lopetegui started with the below 11 which included Sergi Roberto, Vitolo & Diego Costa from the beginning.
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| Spain National Team photo |
Here are all the goals & goalscorers:
1-0 Diego Costa (10')
2-0 Sergi Roberto(55')
3-0 Silva(59')
4-0 Vitolo (60')
5-0 Diego Costa (66')
6-0 Morata (82')
7-0 Morata (83')
8-0 Silva (91)
Diego Costa & Morata got two goals each.
Spanish Coach Lopetegui gave young Real Madrid star Marco Asensio his official debut with the "A side" in the 80th min, shutting any chance Holland may have had in calling up the player for their own National Team. The mother of Marco Asensio is Dutch & there was a possibility that Holland could have "snatched" up the rising star.
Spain gets the three points & a good goal advantage which maybe important when qualifying. The first position of the Group gives direct qualification for Russia 2018 & the Group has complicated opponents like Italy.
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