Spain has booked their spot at the 2018 World Cup courtesy of a 3-0 win over Albania in their penultimate Group G clash on Friday night.
La Roja entered the match three points clear of second-placed Italy, and with the Azzurri being held to a 1-1 draw by Macedonia, Julen Lopetegui’s side have secured their position in the finals with one match to spare.
Spain will travel to Israel on Monday for their final Group G clash as Italy, who are almost certain of a spot in the playoffs, finish away to Albania on the same night.
Rodrigo had a golden opportunity to send Spain ahead in the 13th minute after meeting a brilliant cross from Isco, but the forward somehow headed wide of the post from close range as Albania struggled to contain the hosts.
Rodrigo made no mistake three minutes later, however, as the Brazilian-born attacker controlled an Isco pass with his chest before finding the far corner with a wonderful finish.
Spain then doubled their lead in the 24th minute when Isco collected a cute pass from Koke before drilling the ball into the roof of the net as Albania struggled to cope with a brilliant start from Lopetegui’s side.
Albania actually hit the crossbar through a Llullaku header in the 25th minute, but the visitors were 3-0 behind moments later when Thiago Alcantara rose highest inside the penalty area to head a floated Odriozola cross into the back of the net.
Albania actually had a golden chance to get their name on the scoresheet in first-half stoppage time when Grezda robbed Gerard Pique inside the Spain box before attempting to find Llullaku, but Ramos was across to make a fine clearance.
Asensio also came close with a free kick in the latter stages, but 3-0 was how it ended as Spain confirmed their spot at the 2018 World Cup courtesy of Macedonia’s late goal in Italy.
