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World Cup, group stage

Chile 1 - Spain 2

Spain are through to the knock-out stage of the World Cup after beating Chile 1-2 in their last group game. Del Bosque's side needed a win to be sure of qualifying, but they had problems early on against a quick and physical opponent. Midway through the first half though Chile keeper Claudio Bravo came out of his area to clear from the advancing Fernando Torres, and the ball fell to David Villa who curled a shot from the left wing in to the empty net. And ten minutes later Iniesta made it two, opening his body to steer a shot wide of the Real Sociedad keeper after Villa returned his pass. It appeared to be all over, especially as the South Americans were left with ten men as Estrada was given a second booking for tripping Torres in the build up to the goal. But just a couple of minutes after the restart Chile got one back, half time substitute Millar firing in a shot from the edge of the area which deflected off Piqué over the head of Casillas. For a few minutes nerves were on edge, but news came in that Switzerland were being held by Honduras in the other group game, meaning that both sides would go through, and after that it was a question of running down the clock. Spain go on to meet Portugal next Tuesday, and Chile will face Brazil the day before. (25.06.10)