Spain boost Euro 2016 qualification chances with flat 1-0 win

Spain took their four win from five qualifying games for the Euro 2016 Championships thanks to a goal from striker Alvaro Morata on Friday.

Morata's goal secured three vital points against a direct rival for qualification in what was another slightly disappointing display from the Spanish.

The main news in the Spanish starting 11 was that coach Vicente del Bosque opted to pair Andres Iniesta and Isco, along with David Silva in his side while Morata was given the task of leading the attack in just his third appearance for his country.

The game kicked off after an emotional minute's silence for the victims of the Air Berlin air crash earlier in the week, which claimed the lives of 50 Spaniards.

It was no surprise the Spanish controlled the ball and their first clear chance arrived in the ninth minute when Morata shot wide.

Silva saw a shot blocked by the defense and headed over before Morata scored his first goal for his country after 28 minutes following a move involving Iniesta and Atletico Madrid midfielder, Koke.

Sergio Ramos should have doubled Spain's lead three minutes from halftime but headed against the crossbar after losing his marker following a free kick.

The second half started with Spain again in control but an error from Iker Casillas, who failed to clear with his feet gave Rotan with a shooting chance, which allowed the Spain keeper to redeem himself.

Casillas saved again from Rotan with just over 20 minutes remaining, although the Spanish were generally in control but without the spark needed to break down an organized rival.

Tymoschuk sent a shot just over the Spanish bar in the 87th minute while Santi Cazorla saw a shot tipped wide as Spain held on with reasonable ease in the closing minutes. Endite