Thursday 19 June 2014

Red hot Chile end Spain's reign as champions


World Cup Group B, Estadio Maracana - Spain 0 Chile 2 (Vargas 20' Aranguiz 43')



Spain became the first side to crash out of the 2014 World Cup after an embarrassing 2-0 loss to Chile.

First half goals from Eduardo Vargas and Alexis Sanchez assured Chile of victory, but although they played well, Spain can only blame themselves.

For the first goal, Chile opened up Spain's defence with swift, simple passing, but a more mobile or organised side would have been better able to intercept the attack - and Vargas coolly slotted in the opener. For the second, Iker Casillas lazily punched away a Sanchez free kick into the path of Aranguiz, who swiftly dispatched the second.

In the second half, Vicente del Bosque swapped Xabi Alonso - off the pace all match - for Koke. He later called on Fernando Torres and Santi Cazorla, but their wan efforts showed just how far Spain's squad has fallen away from their previously high standards.

It was not just Alonso. Casillas should be dropped, Andrés Iniesta looks to have faded utterly, and Diego Costa was plainly not fit. For one reason, or more likely for many, this Spain side have come to the end of their life. It is impossible they will not improve from here. Chile, however, have managed to reach a thrilling peak.




Source: Eurosport 

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