Spain Eliminated From World Cup, Lose to Chile

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Coming off a harsh loss to the Netherlands, Spain looked to rebound in their second match in group play against Chile.  Chile beat Australia in their first match and earlier in the day the Netherlands also beat Australia.  Two losses to Australia means they cannot advance to the knock-out stage and the two wins for the Dutch guarantees they will make it out of Group B.  Today Spain hoped they would not end up in the same boat as Australia, needing at least a draw to stay in contention.

Xabi Alonso had the best chance for Spain early in the match, but a big stop by keeper Claudio Bravo from point-blank denied the goal scoring opportunity.  Moments later Chile managed to break through the Spanish defense and the defending champions again found themselves in the hole.

Alexis Sánchez helped create the goal when he played a through-ball to Charles Aránguiz behind the Spanish back line.  Aránguiz then squared the ball across the face of goal for Eduardo Vargas.  The Chilean striker made a cutback to avoid keeper Casillas before firing a shot into the back of the net (20').

Chile then doubled the lead when Casillas did a poor job clearing a free-kick.  Alexis Sánchez drilled a free-kick at the goal keeper who got his fists behind the shot.  The ball was not sent out of the box though, and came right to Aránguiz.  With one touch to control and another to shoot, Aranguiz put Chile ahead by two (43').

Nothing seemed to work today for Spain and the second-half did not show improvement.  Koke, Torres, and Santi Cazorla were subbed in over the second-half, but nobody could find a spark and get back into the match.

As it stands The Netherlands and Chile both earned a place in the knock-out round and will play to determine who will win the group.  Spain however will play one final match in Brazil against Australia though the game will have no importance.  All Spain will get out of it is a chance to let some other players get the opportunity to play in a World Cup match.