Santi Cazorla ended a competitive international goal drought of over half a decade as he scored two goals in Spain’s 4-0 win over Luxembourg.
The Arsenal midfielder had not scored in a qualifier or tournament match since a 2009 win over Estonia but he was back among the goals in Logroño, securing a spot at next summer’s European Championships next summer.
Cazorla, who is yet to score for his club this season, hit the bar early in the first half before turning in in the first just before half-time. He was the first to the ball after Pedro’s effort had been parried by the keeper and he rifled the rebound into the top of the net.
Two from Valencia striker Paco Alcacer added to Spain’s margin before Cazorla drilled in a fourth from the edge of the area.
Little over a year after the disappointment of the World Cup, when the holders crashed out in the group stage, and a qualifying defeat to Slovakia Cazorla feels Vicente del Bosque’s side have moved on from their annus horribilis.
“You have to credit what we've done. We've had a tough road. In a match, anyone can get the better of you,” he said.
“That Slovakia defeat was a tough day, but we knew we had to stick together and stay calm and that's what we've done.
Player Ratings: Arsenal vs Manchester United
“The failure in Brazil is forgotten now. We have to learn from our mistakes. We've got a new generation and we're thinking about the future.”
Spain are bidding to become the first ever side to win three consecutive European championships and are set to be among the top seeds for next summer’s tournament in France.
