Spain secure a winning farewell
David Villa, Fernando Torres and Juan Mata score to give Spain a 3-0 win over Australia as both teams bow out.
Published On 23 Jun 2014
Strikers David Villa and Fernando Torres scored to help give deposed champions Spain a comfortable consolation win after a miserable World Cup when they beat Australia 3-0.
Spain had nothing but pride to play for after losing their first two games. Australia were also on their way home after defeats to Chile and the Netherlands.
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Coach Vicente del Bosque made seven changes from the Spanish team that started the 2-0 defeat by Chile, with midfielder Andres Iniesta winning his 100th cap.
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Iniesta, scorer of the winner in the 2010 final, showed his craft by helping to create Villa’s goal with a superb pass that sent defender Juanfran clear in space on the right wing.
Villa, Spain’s record goalscorer, claimed his 59th goal in 97 games for his country when he turned in the cross. It was probably his last appearance for Spain as he prepares to play in MLS soccer next year.
Substitutes Cesc Fabregas and Juan Mata combined for the third goal in the 82nd minute – Mata smartly slotting through the legs of Australia keeper Mat Ryan.
Source: Reuters