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Spain is done

June 18, 2014

Defending World Cup champion is eliminated after only two games
Chile wins 2-0 to advance to knockout stage along with Netherlands

Spain's Sergio Busquets reacts after missing a chance during the group B World Cup soccer match between Spain and Chile at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

Spain’s Sergio Busquets reacts after missing a chance during the group B World Cup soccer match between Spain and Chile at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Defending champion Spain, the dominant global football power for the past six years, was eliminated from World Cup contention Wednesday with a 2-0 loss to Chile.

Spain’s famed passing game failed against a high-tempo, tenacious Chile team.

Chile took the lead on Eduardo Vargas’ quick shot past Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas in the 19th minute, and Charles Aranguiz added another goal in the 43rd when the ball landed at his feet after Casillas punched out a free kick.

Spain’s second loss, after a 5-1 rout by the Netherlands, ended any hope of advancing. Chile and the Netherlands will both advance, regardless of who wins the game between them.

Spain won the European Championships in 2008 and 2012, in addition to the 2010 World Cup.