South Africa vs. Spain: Score, Grades and Post-Match Reaction

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at Internationaled.org

Published: November 19, 2013

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On a day with several key World Cup qualifiers around the globe, a friendly is likely to steal some headlines. South Africa used a sublime performance to upset top-ranked Spain, 1-0. Bernard Parker provided the winner for Bafana Bafana.



Spain almost jumped out in front within the first five minutes. David Villa broke free behind the South Africa back line, got past Itumeleng Khune and slid the ball into the net, but was deemed offside to bring a quick end to the celebration.



Bafana Bafana rebounded nicely from the early scare to create some chances of their own at the other end. The best came on a hard shot by Oupa Manyisa, which took a deflection off Sergio Ramos and left Iker Casillas hopeless, but the ball struck the crossbar.

Just inside the half-hour mark, Alvaro Arbeloa broke down the wing and delivered a pinpoint cross to Fernando Llorente. The Juventus striker's header flew wide of goal, though.

Neither side was able to produce much in the final 15 minutes of the opening half. Pedro wasn't able to connect for Spain on an Andres Iniesta pass as Khune rushed out. Bongani Khumalo had a look from a corner for South Africa, but it hit the side netting.

Thus, the first half came to a close without either team getting on the scoreboard.



South Africa continued to stand toe-to-toe with their more accomplished counterparts early in the second half. Tokelo Rantie had a golden scoring chance after a strong run and through ball from Siphiwe Tshabalala gave the striker a clear look at goal, but he fired wide.

Spain came within a few inches of grabbing the lead just after the 50-minute mark when Nacho Monreal joined the attack and hit a low strike that just caught the leg of Khune.

Just a few minutes later the deadlock was finally broken, and it was South Africa who took the lead over the world's reigning No. 1 team.

A picture-p...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football

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