Switzerland stuns Spain in World Cup clash

SWITZERLAND stunned European champions Spain in the first big upset at the World Cup with a narrow win in the teams’ Group H opener in Durban.

Despite the Spaniards dominating possession, the Swiss took a surprise lead in the 52nd minute with Gelson Fernandes firing past goalkeeper Iker Casillas.

Spain’s Xabi Alonso was denied by the crossbar in the 71st minute as his team wasted a hatful of chances and not even the late introduction of Liverpool’s Fernando Torres could instigate a breakthrough.

Switzerland held on for an historic win in front of 62,000 spectators at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

“We tried to find solutions on our wings, putting on another striker in Fernando Torres,” added Del Bosque.

“Our football is not just to have ball possession but also find depth in our play.

“We had opportunities especially in the first half to have resolved the game.

“It’s not a good sign we send to our rivals. But we have to hit back and try to win our next two group games.”

FULL STORY: PAGE 39

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