Under 21 European Championship

Spain 4 - Slovakia 2

A close shave, but Spain's under 21 side qualified for the play-off stage of the European competition after beating Slovakia 4-2. Iñaki Saez's side only needed a draw to make it through, but they fell behind when a seemingly harmless shot from Kopunek deflected off Raúl García's foot. And although Kepa equalised soon after the restart following a good passing move between Jurado and Silva, they were caught out again a quarter of an hour from the end when Raúl Albiol's loose clearance was charged down, allowing Jendrisek to score. Things looked desperate, but with three minutes to go Valera stole in to head Gavilán's corner past Kuciak and level the scores. That was enough, but substitute Soldado made sure, first with an individualist effort and then setting up Silva for him to head home the fourth. (05.09.06)