Mini-Coverage: Spain v Russia

Despite what Faizal might say, this was a less than exhilarating game. Spain won the game 4-1 with a hat-trick from David Villa and a diving header from Cesc Fabregas sealed the victory against a very ordinary Russian side who looked as if they just couldn't be bothered to play. The Russian goal was scored by Roman Pavluchenko. Don't get me wrong, I am pleased that Spain have won but...

The goals really mask that this was a game where a good side played against a very average side who were having a very bad day. Seriously, the BBC commentators made out as if the Spanish were world beaters and although I too would like to think that, I found little happiness watching my team maul the Russians. As good as Holland v Italy? About the same - again, Italy refused to turn up and it became an easy victory for Holland as a result. This competition will be more interesting when the teams play each other in the quarter-finals.

Right now, even Luis Arangones (Spain manager) is admitting that they were lucky to win 4-1 against such a physical side - we'll see how lucky they get against some tougher opposition. For the Russians though it seems as if the Hiddink Touch is wearing off; he is no longer getting the luck that he gained with South Korea in 2002 (where they beat the Spanish to go through to the semi-finals) or with Australia a couple of years ago. Chelsea calls...