Spain coach Julen Lopetegui said it was mission accomplished for his side after seeing them end a "tough and difficult" week with a place in the World Cup finals. With nearest rivals Italy only able to draw at home to Macedonia, Spain assured first place in Group G after brushing aside Albania 3-0 in the penultimate round of matches. The result was never in doubt after Rodrigo, Isco and Thiago all scored during a devastating opening 30 minutes. Lopetegui said: "We've qualified for the World Cup, which was our primary objective. It's been a tough and difficult week and fortunately we had a great first half."

Spain's Rodrigo Moreno celebrates a goal v Albania in Alicante on Saturday. Pic/AFP