Spanish ‘in the luck’

SPAIN boss Fernando Hierro admitted after the 2-2 draw with Morocco that his side were lucky to finish top of World Cup Group B and stressed the need for defensive improvement.

Hierro’s men were set to finish second in the pool, and face Group A winners Uruguay in the last 16, until a stoppage-time equaliser by substitute Iago Aspas.

Initially the flag was up for offside, but the goal, Spain’s second l eveller, was subsequently given following a VAR review.

S p a i n a n d Po r t u g a l ended up l evel on five points in first and second place respectively, with goals scored putting the former ahead. Thus, it will

Iago Aspas levels for Spain. be hosts Russia for La Roja in the last 16 while the Portuguese take on the Uruguayans. Hierro has overseen a 3-3 draw with Portugal, a 1-0 win over Iran, and now this result.