Georgia 0-1 Spain

A late goal from Roberto Soldado has earned Spain a narrow 1-0 victory over Georgia in World Cup qualifying.

The Spaniards dominated possession from the outset and should have been ahead in the 10th minute but Sergio Ramos failed to beat George Loria with a free header.

Despite controlling the match, the visitors struggled to showcase their trademark effective football in the final third of the pitch.

David Silva came closest to scoring in the first half, hitting the post with a powerful effort from outside the area.

The pattern of the contest continued in much the same way in the second period, with Georgia being forced to sit in their own half for long periods.

However, it was the hosts who nearly made the breakthrough in the 54th minute, when Alexander Amisulashvili's curling effort struck the outside of the post with Iker Casillas looking on nervously.

The introduction of Cesc Fabregas made the difference for Spain, as the Barcelona midfielder provided the key pass for Soldado to drill home his shot from 12 yards with three minutes remaining.