FCBARCELONA.CAT

15.10.2008 23:05

Iniesta shines in Belgium win

Marc Guillén

Andrés Iniesta scored a superb goal against Belgium to help Spain record a 2-1 victory in Brussels as Vicente del Bosque’s team maintained their 100 per cent start to the World Cup qualifying campaign.

La Furia Roja recorded their fourth win in four matches in Group Five as they came fro a goal down to defeat the Red Devils in front of their own supporters.

A fine goal

Belgium took the lead after just seven minutes when Wesley Sonck netted the opener and the hosts dominated the first half-an-hour until Iniesta pushed forward and drew Spain level in the 36th minute.

The Barça star linked up well with Cesc Fàbregas to create space inside the area and after approaching the keeper he produced a move reminiscent of Michael Laudrup to create a chance and then placed the ball into the net. Iniesta was replaced by Dani Güiza in the 84th minute.

Xavi and Puyol

While Iniesta earned himself some headlines with his goal, Carles Puyol and Xavi Hernández were also instrumental in the victory with both players completing the full 90 minutes. Xavi helped organise the midfield with his usual array of passes and creative vision while Puyol prevented Belgium from testing Iker Casillas.

Valencia’s David Villa netted what proved to be the winning goal in the 88th minute when he met Güiza’s cross. With the win, Spain stayed out in front at the top of the group and can now look forward to their next match against Turkey on Match 28, 2009, which Puyol will miss through suspension.

First Icelandic victory

Eidur Gudjohnsen helped Iceland to a 1-0 win against Macedonia in a win that gave the country their first three points of the campaign. The Blaugrana forward began the game but was then substituted in 81st minute. Iceland won thanks to a 16th minute effort from Gunnarsson.

Israel knocked out

Gai Assulin played 90 minutes for Israel’s Under-21 team, but could not help them to avoid a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Italy in the European Championships qualifier.