Alonso's Two Goals Lifts Spain to Victory Over France

Xabi Alonso celebrates one of his two goals he scored against France. (Michael Buholzer)

Looking to win their third straight major international tournament, Spain has had the bullseye on their back since the onset of Euro 2012. They have also had the microscopic scrutiny of their fans and experts observing their every move. Following a lackluster effort in their final group win over Croatia, Spain looked to rebound against France in the quarterfinals.

Speaking of rebounding, that is exactly what France looked to do as well, after their surprising 2-0 loss to Sweden in their final group match. The French knew that they would have to play much better if they were to have a shot at knocking out the Spanish.

The quarterfinal got underway with Spain gaining control of the majority of possession and scoring opportunities. In the 18th minute, Spanish midfielder Andres Iniesta played a beautiful through ball to Jordi Alba. Alba made a few invasive dribbles and sent a pinpoint cross across the box. Xabi Alonso was there to head it powerfully into the far post corner of the net. France tried to answer with an equalizer, but struggled to maintain possession. The French did get a quality opportunity in the 32nd minute. Yohan Cabaye elected to blast a long range free kick at the net. It tested Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas, but he was able to lift it out of play for a corner. The halftime whistle blew and Spain's lead stood at 1-0.

To begin the second half, France came out with a barrage of opportunities, but a lack of quality finishes. Spain seemed content to maintain possession and lock down defensively. As time passed, the French were forced to press forward more and more, which opened up space in the back for Spain to counter. They had some opportunities, but Hugo Lloris was equal to the task. In stoppage time, Spanish substitute Pedro Rodriguez carried the ball into the French box. When he was taken down by French right back Antony Reveillere, the referee immeadiately awarded a penatly kick. The man of the match, Xabi Alonso, stepped up, fooled Lloris, and calmly buried the ball that sealed the deal.

It was a remarkable performance by Alonso. In his 100th international cap, he scored the only two goals of the match. Typically known to hang back more defensively as a midfielder, Alonso stepped and did what his nation needed him to do. The French were basically a no show. They had opportuinites, but one shot on net simply is not going to cut it against Spain. The Spanish didn't play their best game. I felt as though they got complacent at times with the lead and the fact that they are simply the better team. The Spaniards will need a much better effort against Portugal in the semifinals.