Euro 2008 qualifier

Northern Ireland 3 - Spain 2

A serious setback for Spain in their second qualifying match, a 3-2 defeat at the hands of the unfancied Northern Ireland knocking them off top spot of their group. Luis Aragonés's side seemed to be on their way to victory when Xavi volleyed home Antonio López's cross on the quarter hour mark, his country's one thousandth goal in international football. But only six minutes later a poor headed back pass by Xabi Alonso let in Healy to score. David Villa picked up a return pass from Cesc to restore the lead soon after the restart, but once again Healy equalised, slack marking allowing him to connect with Clinghan's free kick and beat Casillas. Raúl could have won it for Spain when he hit the post a few minutes later, but soon afterwards the defence stood watching as Taylor's long kick bounced through to Healy, who completed his hat-trick with a lob over the head of the stranded keeper. (06.09.06)