England qualifies for Euro 2016, Spain avenges Slovakia loss

GROUP C

Last year's shock defeat at Slovakia on the heels of Spain's poor showing at the 2014 World Cup had many wondering if it was time for coach Vicente del Bosque to start over.

Andres Iniesta (L) celebrates after scoring goal during the Spain v Slovakia EURO 2016 Qualifier at Carlos Tartiere on Sep 5, 2015 in Oviedo, Spain. [Photo/CFP]

And although he promised to rejuvenate his side, a starting lineup of 11 veterans from the Brazil World Cup played like two-time European champions and could have won by a wider margin.

"Objective accomplished," Iniesta said.

Alba headed in a well-placed pass from David Silva to get Spain going in the fifth minute. Iniesta then converted Spain's dominance into a second goal after Diego Costa earned a penalty kick a half-hour in.

Also, Ukraine beat Belarus 3-1 to remain in third place, three points behind Spain and Slovakia, and setting up a big match at Slovakia on Tuesday.

Luxembourg edged Macedonia 1-0 with an injury-time goal to escape last place.