Spain beats Georgia in World Cup qualifier

Xabi Alonso and Spain have begun their quest to win an unprecedented fourth straight major title.

Misha Japaridze/AP

TBILISI, Georgia (AP) -- Spain needed 86 minutes to break down Georgia's defense as Roberto Soldado scored late to secure a 1-0 win Tuesday as the world champions took the first step to defending their title at the 2014 World Cup with a 23rd consecutive victory in qualifying matches.

Georgia goalkeeper Giorgi Loria kept Spain from converting its overwhelming possession into a goal until he was forced off with a leg injury.

Substitute Cesc Fabregas then found Soldado to slot his pass home four minutes from time.

David Silva hit the post in Spain's best chance in the first half, while Aleksander Amisulashvili found the woodwork for Georgia in one of its isolated attacks after the restart.

The victory gave Spain three points, level in Group I with Georgia.

Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.