International Friendly: Spain 1 Colombia 0

A late goal from substitute David Silva lifted Spain to a 1-0 friendly international win over Colombia in Madrid.

The world champions dominated possession against their South American opponents in the first half, but struggled to carve out clear chances in the final third at a packed Bernabeu stadium.

The visitors did a good job of closing down their opponents’ star-studded line-up, although the Spaniards did waste a golden opportunity in the first half.

David Villa, who needs one more goal to overhaul Raul as the most prolific scorer for the Spanish national squad, sprinted onto a ball from Andres Iniesta and slid past Colombia goalkeeper David Ospina before hitting his shot against the post and missing again with the rebound.

Colombia had chances of their own to break the deadlock in the first half, but Hercules midfielder Abel Aguilar’s shot was well blocked by Iker Casillas in the Spain goal.

As Spain brought on Fernando Torres, Villarreal winger Santi Cazorla and Jesus Navas into the contest, it was Colombia who looked more likely to score in the second half as the hosts struggled to break past the experienced central defensive paring of Mario Yepes and Luis Perea.

Colombia had some great chances in the closing stages, with Porto midfielder Fredy Guarin having his long-range effort denied by a good stop from Casillas, while Hugo Rodallega missed with a shot that flew inches wide.

But with four minutes remaining it was Spain who sealed the win, as Navas crossed well to Silva, a late replacement for Xabi Alonso, and the Manchester City midfielder made no mistake from close range.