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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 12:59 p.m., Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Soccer: Spain beats Turkey 2-1 in WCup qualifier

Associated Press

ISTANBUL — Albert Riera scored in injury time Wednesday to give Spain a 2-1 win over Turkey and keep the European champions perfect in World Cup qualifying group.

Riera benefited from a gap in the Turkish defense to score in the second minute of injury time from a pass by Daniel Guiza.

Semih Senturk gave the Turks the lead in the 26th minute after Arda Turan whipped in a cross and Tuncay Sanli set him up for an easy tap-in. Xabi Alonso tied it from the penalty spot in the 62nd after Turkey defender Ibrahim Uzulmez blocked the ball with his hand in a rough challenge just in front of goal.

Spain leads Group 5 with 18 points. Turkey hasn't beaten Spain in 55 years.