Spain have gone out of the World Cup on a winning note by beating Australia 3-0 in their final match in Group B.

Spain looked the more dangerous early on, though it took them until the 20-minute mark to create their first real chance as David Villa fired off target at the back post after being picked out by Andres Iniesta.

The reigning champions started to come to life after that, and they came close to making the breakthrough when Fernando Torres almost converted Koke's cross.

The Spaniards finally took the lead on 36 minutes as Villa cheekily flicked in Juanfran's cross after the full-back had been sent clear with an incisive ball from Iniesta.

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They had a great chance to make it 2-0 in the final minute of the first half when Koke's powerful effort hit the post before going out.

Australia came out for the second half in positive spirits, and they managed to limit the Spaniards from causing more damage in front of goal.

Mathew Leckie was the Aussies' biggest threat at the other end as his robust approach gave Spain plenty to think about, but Tim Cahill's absence through suspension seriously hampered their chances in attack.

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However, La Roja doubled their advantage on 69 minutes as Torres was played through by Iniesta before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner.

Vicente del Bosque's side then made sure of their first points at the tournament when Juan Mata came off the bench to fire home with eight minutes left.

Written by
Jack Prescott