World Cup 2010, Spain Vs. Portugal: Lackluster First Half Erased By David Villa, 1-0 Victory Over Portugal

Spain always look the part of skilled, slick soccer players, but in the first half of their Round of 16 match-up with Portugal, they also played the role of team that likes a cutting edge, an ever-growing concern amongst their faithful. In the second half, after Fernando Llorente was inserted for Fernando Torres, Spain recaptured some vitality scored four minutes later, and went on to eliminate Portugal from the 2010 World Cup, 1-0

David Villa scored his fourth goal of the tournament on a goal that could be called typical Spain, with five intricate touches around the crowded of the penalty area leading to the goal.

Xabi Alonso passed the ball to Andrés Iniesta, 20 yards from goal at the right post. The midfielder passed in to Llorente, back to goal at 16 years, and moved left, where Llorente touched it back to him. Iniesta then passed to Xavi Hernández, just inside the area, who flicked to Villa, running through the right side of defense, for an open chance on Eduardo. The Portugal `keeper stopped the first chance, but when Villa chipped the rebound over him for the second, Spain had their only goal of the match in the 63rd minute.

Spain was able to control play for the remainder of the game, finishing the match with 65 percent of its possession. That total was down from the first half, when the Spaniards held 67 percent of the possession while giving Portugal the better scoring chances.

Midfielder Thiago gave Iker Casillas trouble from 20 yards out in the 20th minute, while forward Hugo Almeida and Thiago had opportunities to head Portugal in front before half time.

Early in the second, Portugal had applied pressure that almost generated a Carles Puyol own goal, but with the insertion of Fernando Llorent, Spain seemed invigorated.

The Spanish now move on to the quarterfinals, where they will meet Paraguay on Saturday.