Buzzin Football Blog

This was a fantastic performance by Spain as they devoured a determined but unlucky Russian team 4-1.

Torres and Villa were in splendid form tormenting a porous Russian defence, both testing the goalkeeper with weak shots in the first ten minutes. On eighteen minutes Torres set up a tap in for Villa.

Russia to their credit pushed more men forward and opened the game into a free flowing first half of excellent football. Russia’s passing game at times matching the quality of Spain. Zyryanov had a shot hit the post for the Russians, before Villa scored the second for Spain just before half time.

As expected the Russian team started the second half stronger, pinning Spain back for long periods. But Spain play the counter attack game as good as any and on 74 minutes Villa scored his third and the game was over.

Russia were unlucky not to have a couple of free kicks awarded on the edge of the Spanish penalty area as they pushed for a goal. It came eventually after 86 minutes from Pavluchenko (remember him?). Fabregas heading in Spain’s fourth on full time.

Villa himself had a few missed chances and on two occasions got caught in possession when he couldn’t decide which of his two runners to pass to.

Torres and Villa upfront for Spain is a dream partnership and with an abundance of world quality midfielders their options are endless. I like the balance of Inniesta and Xavi with Senna in front of the defence, Arogones’ starting choice, but it does mean having the luxury of Fabregas and Alonso on the subs bench!

Russia deserve praise for the fight but on this showing Spain look good for a shot at the title.

I can see the noughts going on David Villa’s price tage as I write!