| International Matches - Under 21 | |
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Israel 0 - Spain 1 Spain: Aranzubia;
Coira, Jusué, Marchena, Bermudo; Gabri, Orbaiz, Xavi, Yeste
(Joaquín 55'); Guayre (Colsa 78'), Pablo (Fernando 89'). 4-4-2. Goals: France: played 6
games, 14 points Spain's under 21 side recorded a good win in a match which attracted little interest in Israel. Iñaki Saez drafted Joaquín from Betis and Xisco from Recreativo into the squad after both had played for their second division sides at the weekend, and had Marchena available to play after sitting out a one match suspension. Bilbao's Aranzubia took over from Reina in goal. Israel were missing their first choice keeper Shalo and striker Zandberg, both suspended, and reserve keeper Rajmin had to save twice from Xavi and from a Yeste free kick in the first half. Israel should probably have been awarded a penalty when Jusué brought down Fadida, but Swiss referee René Rogalia said no, and then Spain took the lead through Pablo before half time. It was Pablo's fourth goal in two matches, and afterwards he complained about the lack of opportunities he has been given at Celta, the main reason why he accepted an offer from Ipswich to move to the English premier league. Joaquín came on for Yeste soon after the break and set up a couple of chances, although none were converted. Biton gave the visitors a fright when he shot against the post, and Gabri shot wide when another opportunity arose. Colsa and then Fernando came on for the front two as Saez played it safe, and Spain now move on to thirteen points, only one behind France who they play away in their last match after meeting Austria at home. With seven out of the nine second placed teams to qualify with the nine leaders, they should go through even if they don't beat France. The six points they have picked up this week were just what they needed. |
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