Group H Decided! Viva Espana And Red Hot Chile Advance

As in Group G, Group H showcased Spain taking on Chile in their final group match. Chile had impressed throughout the group phase with the vibrant attacking style and also their determination. Spain however hadn't been playing at their best and therefore the match against Chile was potentially an elimination match. The matchup between La Roja and La Furia Roja turned out to be an excellent showpiece of attacking football at its best.

Vicente Del Bosque had to endure criticism about his tactics for Luis Aragones but in the end, he had the last laugh as Spain put together their best performance in the group matches to register three points against Chile. David Villa leapt to joint top of the World Cup scorers leader board when he netted a 40 yard goal after Chile goalie Bravo tried unsuccessfully to clear a Torres danger. Villa then created an opening for Iniesta who scored a sublime second goal. Speaking of Torres, he again looked out of sorts. El Nino's touch remained very heavy and his reflexes very slow, he looks like he is in need of a good holiday with Olala and Nora.

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Mark Gonzalez' Heads La Roja To The Top Of Group H

Chile went about their business of playing progressive football, with the midfield and attack showing a lot of movement and quick passing. When Behrami got himself sent off, La Roja increased the tempo and the Swiss found it harder and harder to cope with the speedy Chileans.

Despite Chile's profligacy in front of goal, the breakthrough finally came when Parades was put through on goal. He beat the keeper and floated the ball to the far post for former Liverpool winger, Gonzalez to head home. It was exactly what Chile deserved for all the attacking verve they had shown in this game.

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La Furia Roja Unbeaten Run Ended By Swiss Resistance

Spain dominated open play, totalling 63% of ball possession and 42 minutes of actual playing time compared to the Swiss team's 37% and 25 minutes, but in the end, fell to a smash-and-grab goal from ex-Manchester City player, Gelson Fernandes in the 51st minute.

No team has ever won the World Cup after losing in their opening match and as such, Spain must defy history as well as their own mental frailties to lift the trophy come July 11th. A solid Swiss defence and inability to deal with Jabulani's erratic attributes put paid to Spain's total dominance in this match.

 

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2010 World Cup Group H Head To Head

Group H has a very distinct Latin slant to proceedings. Spain, Honduras and Chile will provide the flair and creativity and cynical diving. Switzerland will use its hardworking and hard running style to try and counter the raw talent of David Villa, Nando Torres, Iniesta, Xavi, Suazo, Figueroa and Palacios.

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