Spain holds on for friendly win over Haiti

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Spain holds on for friendly win over Haiti

MIAMI - World champion Spain held on for a 2-1 win over Haiti in a friendly on Saturday as the club warmed up for this month’s Confederations Cup.

After Fernando Torres went close with a spectacular volley, Vicente del Bosque’s team grabbed the lead in the eighth minute with a low drive from 25 yards by Santi Cazorla.

The Spaniards doubled their advantage in the 19th minute when Juan Mata chipped the ball to Cesc Fabregas, who glanced in a header.

It looked likely to be a one-sided game with Spain strolling around and Haiti, which has struggled in recent years in Concacaf competition, chasing the ball in the heat and humidity.

Spain introduced Barcelona midfielders Andres Iniesta and Xavi in the second half and almost made it 3-0 when Roberto Soldado struck the post in the 70th minute.

But Haiti stuck at the task and delighted fans in the 36,535 crowd at Sun Life Stadium with a goal in the 76th minute.

The ball fell to left back Wilde-Donald Guerrier, who showed electric pace and great composure to burst past the Spanish defense, round substitute keeper Pepe Reina and slot home.

The Spaniards play another friendly, against Ireland on Tuesday at New York’s Yankee Stadium, before heading to the Confederations Cup in Brazil where they will face Uruguay, Nigeria and Tahiti in Group B.

Reuters


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