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David Silva of Spain celebrates scoring his goal during the UEFA EURO 2012 group C match between Spain and Ireland at The Municipal Stadium on June 14, 2012 in Gdansk, Poland. (Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Spain’s chances of retaining its European title rose after a comfortable 4-0 win against the Republic of Ireland team that has lost all hopes of advancement in the European Championship after two consecutive defeats.
On Thursday’s game, Spain’s Fernando Torres scored twice, one in each half, while David Silva and substitute Cesc Fàbregas also had their turn as the Spain is now on top of Group C.
Torres, who scored in the Europe 2008 final, has become Spain’s third all-time leading scorer with 30 goals in 95 appearances.
Both teams had just one change to their lineups from the opening encounters against Italy and Croatia respectively.
Earlier in the day, Italy and Croatia tied 1-1.
Ireland will play its final match against Italy on Monday, which has two points and requires a victory to advance to the quarterfinals. Spain can go forward with a draw against Croatia on Monday.
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