David Villa seems to be the key to unlocking any defense, even Portugal’s stiff backline, which entered this match having not conceded a goal. The Barcelona striker struck in the 63rd minute to send Spain into quarterfinals for the first time since the 2002 World Cup.
His goal in the 63rd minute was a typical poacher’s strike, coming at the end of a second-half siege from La Furia Roja. Xavi shuffled a heel pass into the path of Villa, who was somehow left alone inside the Portuguese area. The striker’s first shot was saved by Eduardo, but the keeper could do nothing about the rebound.
And Spain were on their way. However, despite the Spanish controlling possession, Portugal had more of the chances for the most part on the day. At least until the goal.
In the 20th minute Portugal came close. Breaking quickly on the counter, Tiago found himself alone in the middle and whipped a shot from about 25 yards out that Iker Casillas parried straight up into the air. Hugo Almeida challenged for the high ball, but Casillas was able to recover and knock it out of danger.
In the 52nd minute, Almeida came close again, rushing down the left side and into the Spanish area. After he cut to the inside, his low cross was deflected up and nearly landed in the goal.
Finally, Spain actually threatened in the 60th minute. A lovely cross from Sergio Ramos picked out Fernando Llorente, but the Bilbao striker’s diving header was blocked by a well-positioned Eduardo. Seconds later, Villa curled a shot just around the outside of the right post.
The furious action led to the situation and the goal, as Spain pressed to get the goal, knowing that just one would be enough. After it came, though, they continued attacking.
In the 70th minute, Ramos sprinted down the right side again, cut inside to his left, and drilled a low hard shot that Eduardo pushed around the post. Seven minutes later, Villa stung Eduardo’s hands with a long-range effort.
But they didn’t need the second goal. Other than an 89th-minute red card to Ricardo Costa, the game drained away and Spain moved on.
Scoring Summary
ESP – Villa 63’
Spain: Iker Casillas; Sergio Ramos, Carlos Puyol, Gerard Piqué, Joan Capdevila; Xavi, Xabi Alonso (Carlos Marchena 93+’), Sergio Busquets, Andres Iniesta; David Villa (Pedro 85’), Fernando Torres (Fernando Llorente 59’)
Portugal: Eduardo; Ricardo Costa, Ricardo Carvalho, Bruno Alves, Fábio Coentrão; Tiago, Pepe (Pedro Mendes 72’), Raul Meireles; Hugo Almeida (Danny 59’), Simão (Liedson 72’), Cristiano Ronaldo
England squeak past Slovenia and into 2nd round; Slovenia out.Iker - Utd and City want me
