Spain Vs. France, Euro 2012: Xabi Alonso Header Gives Spain Lead

Spain have just scored. With a header. From an open-play cross. If you put money on that happening, you're now rich. Congratulations.

Jordi Alba made things happen, skipping down the left flank and evading a despairing attempt by Mathieu Debuchy to bring him down just outside the box. Having found some space, Alba recognised an unmarked far post run from Xabi Alonso, and he picked it out perfectly with a high cross that the Real Madrid midfielder met on the run. Alonso's header was superb, hit into the ground and back across Hugo Lloris' goal, and neither the goalkeeper not Gael Clichy could prevent it nestling in the bottom corner to make it 1-0.

So, now France have to attack rather than just hope Spain don't score. Good luck with that, France.

We have live coverage of the game in our Spain vs. France, Euro 2012 Quarterfinals StoryStream. For more on Euro 2012 and the entire world of football, follow @SBNationSoccer on Twitter.