Spain advance to quarter-finals after draw with Argentina

The draw against Argentina has only benefitted Spain, as the 'Albiceleste' have been eliminated after Egypt's surprise win over Australia. Therefore, the qualifiers from Group C are Spain with 5 points and Egypt with 4.

It was a crucial match for both teams who needed to win to advance to the next round. In this case, the winner was Spain, who after a win and two draws have qualified and will face Ivory Coast on 31th July. A tough opponent that has managed to qualify from a difficult group by finishing above Germany after a 1-1 draw on Wednesday. 

It was a tough match on both sides, with a lot of fouls, 12 from each team and ending with six yellow cards for Argentina. Overall, Spain dominated the match with 63% ball possession. The Spanish side took the lead with a great goal from Mikel Merino after a pass from Dani Olmo in the 66th minute, although Argentina took advantage of a corner to level the match in the 87th minute with a goal by Tomas Belmonte. 

Unai Simon and Ledesma played a key role in the match, making several saves to prevent some goals. Spain's wingers, Olmo and Asensio, were outstanding and kept getting into the box and shooting at goal. Cucurella also had a good match both in attack and defence. 

For Argentina, the best player was Ledesma. The goalkeeper saved several clear shots from the Spanish strikers. Belmonte also had a great match, scoring the leveller and the defensive line in general held Spain's strikers at bay. 

The match has ended in a draw and only Spain can advance to the quarter-finals. The two teams in Group C will face two very tough opponents for a place in the semi-finals. Spain will face Ivory Coast and Egypt will face Brazil. Argentina and Australia are eliminated.

 

July 28, 2021