|
Spain took over sole lead of Group B when it defeated Paraguay 3:1 on Friday in a come-from-behind victory. Fernando Morientes, who was a half-time substitute, provided the spark for Spain with two goals after his team was down 1:0 at half-time.
Paraguay took command of the game early with strong ball possession, and their efforts were rewarded when, at the 10-minute mark, Spanish defender Puyol accidentally put in a long humdinger of a kick from Paraguayan Francisco Arce that Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas just got a piece of rebound into his own goal.
But with fresh legs coming off the bench, Morientes scored two quick goals that sent the Paraguayans reeling back on their heels. They never recovered after that. Spain captain Fernando Hierro converted a late penalty to finish off Paraguay.
Spain, which is virtually guaranteed a spot in the second round with its win, next takes on South Africa, while Paraguay's hopes of making it into the next round rest with how it fares in its next match against Slovenia.
(Glen Choi, glen@chosun.com )
|
