That came after 57 minutes - and before the tie reached the hour mark Spain had also been awarded a penalty by referee Carlos Batres.

BBC: Paraguay 0-1 Spain

Referee Carlos Batres booked Smith before Juventus striker Vincenzo Iaquinta coolly slotted home, ignoring New Zealand's apparent attempts to match Italy's gamesmanship by trying to delay the kick.

BBC: Italy 1-1 New Zealand

Replays did suggest referee Batres was correct to order a retake - and the prayers of Valdez, who was on his knees just outside the penalty box, were answered when Alonso saw his effort saved and Spain failed to score.

BBC: Paraguay 0-1 Spain