Spain survive as Torres courts controversy

FERNANDO TORRES was caught up in what FIFA would call a simulation controversy as Spain edged their way into the last 16 with a narrow 2-1 victory over 10-man Chile, but only after some theatrics from the Liverpool striker resulted in Marco Estrada being sent off.

The pre-tournament favourites will now play Portugal in the last 16 while Chile face Brazil, but Torres’ actions could yet prove a talking point after he fell to the floor clutching his face during a flowing move that led to Spain’s second goal, scored by Andres Iniesta.

Referee Marco Rodriguez, having awarded the goal, then produced a red card, but video replays clearly showed there had been only the slightest of contact as Estrada brushed harmlessly and accidentally past Torres — perhaps clipping the striker’s foot but certainly not his face.