The first day of matches in the FIFA 2009 Confederations Cup was Sunday with Spain easily beating New Zealand and Iraq and South Africa playing to a scoreless draw. Here’s a full recap of both matches.
Spain easily beats New Zealand 5-0 – Video Highlights – It was hardly a competition as Spain had no trouble disposing of New Zealand on Sunday. Fernando Torres had a hat trick before the 20 minute mark and Spain cruised. New Zealand were never expected to win the match and keeping it within 2 or 3 goals would have been a moral victory. With the victory Spain is almost for sure a lock to win the group and move onto the semifinals. New Zealand is not out of it and could still move on with a win and draw in the final 2 group matches.
| MATCH STATS | ||
| New Zealand | Spain | |
| Shots (on Goal) | 3(3) | 11(8) |
| Fouls | 6 | 8 |
| Corner Kicks | 2 | 7 |
| Offsides | 2 | 5 |
| Yellow Cards | 0 | 0 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 0 |
| Saves | 3 | 3 |
South Africa and Iraq draw 0-0 – Video Highlights – The two teams who are battling to get 2nd in the group played to a scoreless draw on Sunday. The hosts South Africa had more shots on goal but couldn’t convert on anything. Either team could advance with a win over New Zealand and if they are able to get a draw with Spain. South Africa looks to be the favorite with the home crowd but Iraq is definitely not out of it.
| MATCH STATS | ||
| South Africa | Iraq | |
| Shots (on Goal) | 7(5) | 1(1) |
| Fouls | 9 | 4 |
| Corner Kicks | 1 | 3 |
| Offsides | 0 | 0 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 1 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 0 |
| Saves | 1 | 5 |
