Football: Spain in control of World Cup Group B thanks to Sarabia penalty in Greece

ATHENS (REUTERS) – A penalty from Spain’s Pablo Sarabia secured a 1-0 victory in their World Cup qualifier away to Greece on Thursday (Nov 11), meaning “La Roja” need a point from their showdown with Sweden at the weekend to secure a place at next year’s World Cup finals.

Sarabia’s winner came in the 26th minute after Inigo Martinez was tripped following a corner. Sarabia’s low strike found the net to the left of Odysseas Vlachodimos.

In a nearly empty Athens Olympic Stadium, Spain dominated with 70 per cent possession and were never in danger of losing.

After Sweden’s surprise 2-0 defeat away to Georgia, Spain now lead Group B with 16 points, one ahead of the second-placed Swedes who they host on Sunday in their final group match.

Sweden must beat Spain in Seville to qualify automatically for Qatar 2022, while a draw would be enough for Spain to progress.

The runners-up will head to the playoffs in March.

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