Spain almost at the World Cup

Spain stayed top of Group I in the FIFA World Cup 2014 Qualifying, and are almost sure of a place in Brazil after downing Belarus 2-1.

Vicente Del Bosque’s side had to wait until the second half to go in front. Xavi Hernández, who was involved in all aspects of the game, put Spain ahead just after the hour mark with a close range volley. Later Álvaro Negredo doubled the lead with a superb header, but the last few minutes were ones dominated by nerves. Sergey Kornilenko made the score 2-1 and everybody at the Iberostar Estadio grew tense waiting for the final whistle, which eventually came.

This victory means Spain need only one more point to mathematically guarantee themselves a place at the World Cup in Brazil next summer.