Spain cruises to comfortable win in Liechtenstein

World and European champion Spain cruised to a comfortable 4-0 win in Liechtenstein as it began the defense of its European crown.

Fernando Torres scored twice and David Villa and David Silva also netted as the Spanish enjoyed an easy win against one of the weakest sides in Europe.

In his side's first competitive game since winning the World Cup in South Africa, Spain coach Vicente del Bosque picked his strongest starting 11 with Villa partnering Torres in attack.

Carlos Marchena took up the central defense for the injured Carles Puyol to partner Gerard Pique, while Xavi Hernandez, Xabi Alonso, Sergio Busquets and Andres Iniesta made up a formidable looking midfield.

Villa was especially motivated: the recent FC Barcelona striker kicked the game off with just two goals less than all-time Spanish top scorer Raul Gonzalez's record of 44.

It was Torres who opened the scoring, the Liverpool striker had been below his best at the World Cup, but when he received a pass from Iniesta after 17 minutes he made no mistake from inside the area.

Villa scored his 43rd goal for his country after 26 minutes. Alonso gave him the ball, but his shot from distance surprised the Jehle in the Liechtenstein goal.

Spain was in complete control of the game and the home side, which has less than 3,000 registered players, never looked like creating any problems for the world champions before the break.

Del Bosque brought Cesc Fabrigas on for Xavi at half time and the Arsenal player set up Torres for his second of the night 10 minutes into the second half.

David Silva, who replaced Torres after the striker's second goal, made it 4-0 shortly afterwards and although Spain saw Villa hit the bar in the last minute, there was no further change to the score.

Del Bosque's men take a comfortable win and travel to Argentina to play a friendly game in Buenos Aires.

Source:Xinhua