Spain ready for finals assault

Spain booked a place in the finals of the 2003/04 UEFA European Under-17 European Championship after comfortably beating Hungary 6-1 in their final second-round Group 1 game at the Estadio San Rafael in Los Barrios.

Authoritative start
Juan Santisteban's side made their intentions clear with a flurry of attempts during the opening ten minutes. The opening goal came as the half-hour approached when a Francesc Fábregas free-kick hit the wall and landed at the feet of José Plá - who fired past Daniel Totka from distance.

Shock equaliser
Up until then, Hungary had been defending en masse but they levelled the scores with their first significant attack ten minutes later – László Rezes beating Antonio Adán in a one-on-one to ensure that the sides went in at half-time level.

Lead recovered
With news filtering through that Russia were beating Czech Republic 1-0, Spain knew that if they drew elimination was likely. Thankfully for the home supporters they rose to this challenge in the second half, recovering the lead just six minutes after the break when Javi García connected with a Carlos Carmona cross to head past a helpless Totka. The Real Madrid CF forward added his second and Spain's third five minutes later from a corner.

Penalty kick
Referee Charles Richmond pointed to the spot when Spain's Diego Capel was floored in the area moments later and the resulting penalty was converted with ease by Arsenal FC prodigy Cesc to hand Spain a 4-1 lead. Just before the hour mark Carmona got on the scoresheet with a superb diving header.

Capel glory
Capel wrapped up the match with a spectacular individual goal, hurtling past four defenders before slotting beyond the Hungary keeper.

Top of the group
With Russia maintaining their 1-0 lead against the Czechs, Spain topped the group on goal difference to ensure their place at the eight-team U17 finals in France this May.

Santisteban pleased
Spain coach Santisteban was pleased with the result, especially after the wobble of drawing with the Russians. "We recovered our game today, particularly in the second half," he said. "We have needed to work very hard against some advanced opponents and I am very happy that we have qualified.

Friday draw
"I would add a word of thanks to the public for the support they have given us," he said. "That encouragement has lifted us during the past few days." The U17 finals draw takes place this Friday in Blois.