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Pakistan take three Champions Trophy points from Spanish

Pakistan beat two-time winners Spain 2-0 in their Champions Trophy match yesterday, redeeming their heavy loss to Germany a day earlier.

After a goalless first half, Pakistan broke through in the 56th minute when Shakeel Abbasa evaded three Spanish defenders to shoot. It was saved by goalkeeper Francisco Cortes, but a diving Waqas Sharif knocked home the rebound.

Akhtar Ali made it two when his hopeful hit from just inside the D whizzed past a stranded Cortes in the 60th minute.

Pakistan, who lost 5-2 to Germany in their opening match on Thursday, now have three points from two matches. Spain had drawn 2-2 against South Korea on Thursday. Today is a rest day.

Abbasa was a thorn in the side of Spain's defense with his runs down the right wing and his understanding with Sharif.

Only the skill and agility of Cortes kept the former Asian champions at bay in the opening 35 minutes as he pulled off some outstanding saves to deny goals by Sharif and Ali.

Spain were restricted to sporadic attacks but never really troubled Salman Akbar in the Pakistani goal. As the half wore on, it became obvious that the heat was affecting the Spaniards, who were content to pass the ball around in midfield.

The break appeared to put life into the Spanish team but that soon dissipated.
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