Unlucky 13 sinks Norwegian Vikings

Spain, who needed a win to be sure of reaching the last eight from Group C, were facing elimination from the tournament as the regulation 90 minutes ended with Jose Antonio Camacho’s side trailing 3-2.

But Yugoslavia, who had Slavisa Jokanovic sent off in the 63rd minute, were hit by a double-whammy during five memorable minutes of stoppage time. First they were rocked by an equalising penalty converted by Gaizka Mendieta, and then they were poleaxed by Alfonso’s dramatic late winner.

Norway coach Nils Johan Semb had paid the price for over-caution thinking a draw for his side was enough but his worst fears were confirmed in the press tribune when he saw a Spanish journalist doing the samba. Spain’s miraculous late rally meant they qualify for the last eight along with Yugoslavia who still went through despite being level with Norway on four points. Yugoslavia qualify as they won the game between the two countries 1-0.

The Norwegian press carried pictures on their front pages of Semb falling to the floor, symbolising the feelings of the nation after their gut-wrenching exit.

The Norwegian newpapers were less than sympathetic to a team whose predictable style of play has brought them just one goal in the tournament.