Spain triumphed over Libya (0-8) in their third match of the World Cup in Uzbekistan, successfully qualifying for the round of 16 as the top team in Group D. This match marked their strongest performance yet, featuring a hat-trick from Mellado. Spain’s goal difference advantage over Kazakhstan, who defeated New Zealand (10-0), secured their position despite the latter’s impressive win. La Roja, remaining undefeated, looks ahead to their next match on Wednesday, September 25 (2:30 p.m., Teledeporte), against a yet-to-be-determined opponent from the best third-placed teams in groups B, E, or F.
Fede Vidal noted concerns about Spain’s finishing, evident in the first nine minutes of play. However, the team’s defensive strategy under Ricardo Iniguez and goalkeeper Feras Abuksheam held strong. Unlike their previous match against New Zealand, Spain scored their first goal just three minutes in. Mellado capitalized on a defensive mistake and delivered a precise right-footed shot into the top corner.
Despite initial uncertainties in the formation, the coach adapted by bringing Jesús Gordillo onto the field. Spain’s first goal provided a significant boost. Moments later, Antonio Pérez assisted Adolfo for the second goal, marking Pérez’s fourth assist of the tournament and rewarding his persistence as the team’s leading shooter with 31 attempts before scoring. In the 14th minute, Cortés scored the third goal with a surprising low shot following a lost ball.
the game
Mellado added his second goal just before halftime, showcasing his skills with a deft feint and a powerful strike against a beleaguered Libya. Catela scored the fourth goal following a well-executed team play. The referees disallowed a subsequent goal by the same player due to a prior foul.
In the second half, Chemi made his World Cup debut as goalkeeper, impressing with his performance. Ricardo Íñiguez also introduced Ziyad Azeez, who proved difficult for Spain to penetrate, particularly as Kazakhstan closed the gap in goal difference with their win. Mellado completed his hat-trick in the 28th minute, followed by Cortés scoring the seventh goal from an assist by Pérez. Jesús Gordillo capped the scoring with the eighth goal after deflecting a long shot from Catela.
Spain’s 8-0 victory marked their largest win margin since the 2004 World Cup (10-0 against Chinese Taipei) and secured their advancement to the round of 16 as Group D leaders, continuing their streak of nine consecutive World Cups without a loss.
In Group C, Argentina demonstrated their title aspirations with a 9-5 win over Angola, led by Alan Brandi, who netted five goals. Their round of 16 opponent is expected to be Croatia, who defeated Cuba (0-7). Ukraine also advanced after a 4-1 victory over Afghanistan, securing their place against the Netherlands on Tuesday (17:00), with contributions from Yevhenii Zhuk and Danyil Abakshyn.
