Bafana played tight, disciplined football agaianst the number one team in the world, holding Spain to 0-0 until half time. Immediately after the break Bafana conceded a penalty, Mokoena downed Fabregas. Khune did a brilliant double save off Villa's hot foot. But Villa wasn't done. While Bafana languished in relief, Villa stopped the ball with his chest, and while still in the air zipped the ball into the ball of the net. It happened almost too fast even for TV viewers to see. That was in the 52nd minute.
Bafana then took their MTN sponsorship literally, by getting yellow carded all over the field before finally settling down. Parker looked dangerous, but Spain remained dominant, and steely disciplined. A cross by Siboniso Gaxa was promising, but Parker was one leg behind and the Spanish goalkeeper swooped in.
Torres went off to allow substitute Llorente to hot foot a second goal, a lucky low pinball that spun off another Spanish player while Bafana's defence enjoyed 50 winks.
Khune did well to limit Bafana's losses, Booth was solid and Pienaar also impressed.
But the important thing is Bafana were able to raise their game, and they're through. For South Africans the Confed Cup remains relevant, and tomorrow's game - Brazil against World Champion, Italy, ought to be a cracker.
