Spain 4-0 Ukraine

It is a puzzle to Soccer Pundit why Spain, with one of the most skilful, competitive leagues and so many fine players have always been packed off prematurely at the World Cup. However, they could finally be enjoying better luck if this 4-0 demolition of Ukraine is anything to go by.

Two goals from the outstanding David Villa, one a deflected free kick and the second from the first penalty awarded in the competition, a header from Xabi Alonso and a powerful volley from Fernando Torres secured Spain's emphatic Group H victory.

Ukraine were reduced to 10 men after 47 minutes when Vladislav Vashchyuk was harshly sent off for tugging at Torres's shorts. Andriy Shevchenko, the 2004 Footballer of the Year who has been signed by Chelsea from AC Milan for almost 30 million pounds ($55.24 million), hardly had a meaningful touch.

Spain has now taken their run to 23 matches without defeat since Luis Aragones became coach after Euro 2004. Soccer Pundit feels that this may just be the opening match but Spain has really played excellent football in defence, midfield and attack and could easily have added more goals. They also have two young strikers, Torres (Atletico Madrid) and Villa (Valencia) who can strike fear into any defence and a promising midfielder in Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal).