Experts and fans from around the world expected a closely contested match when Spain took on Portugal on Tuesday. The first hour of the match was disappointing as both teams were unable to score or play a really attacking game.

It was only towards the latter part of the game, when things got interesting. In the 63rd minute, David Villa scored yet again for Spain, when he broke through their defense and struck a shot straight at Eduardo who stopped it but the rebound went straight back at Villa, who made sure his second shot went into the back of the net.

Villar was ecstatic as this is his fourth goal of the tournament. He has received little support from star striker Fernando Torres who was substituted in the 58th minute, much to the disappointment of the fans.

Torres along with Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo have been disappointing throughout the tournament. Ronaldo was unable to make an impact on this match and was seen spitting at the camera’s while he walked off the field.

Eduardo had a good game, saving 9 out of the 10 shots that the Spaniards sent his way. His form has been really good throughout the match as he has not conceded a goal in this world cup, until Villa broke that record.

Spain’s coach, Vicente del Bosque was happy with his team’s performance. He told reporters “It is very difficult to focus on Ronaldo and try to neutralise his game because we all know he can switch from left to right and also go in the middle. We all know his ability. But every time he came into an attacking area we stopped him. Portugal are a good side on the attack but we had very good defenders who did a fantastic job stopping them.”

Portugal’s manager Carlos Queiroz said “Spain had the better chances and I think, sadly, they deserved to win. Spain were much more effective moving the ball around. We were looking for chances on the counter-attack. We had our chances - we just didn't score.”

Asked if he was proud of his team’s performance, Queiroz replied “I wanted us to be able to leave the field with our heads held high, and I think we accomplished this.”

Spain will now take on Paraguay in their quarter final match and are expected to go through to the semi finals. Bosque went on to say that “We know we are playing well and now we want to create a bit of history.”