World champion Spain wins 3-1 against Lithuania in Euro 2012 qualifier

Spain beats Lithuania 3-1 in Euro qualifier

SALAMANCA, Spain — Fernando Llorente scored twice to help world champion Spain beat Lithuania 3-1 Friday in a 2012 European Championship qualifier.

Spain struggled to break down the visitors’ defense until Llorente scored his fifth international goal in the 47th minute with a header from a perfectly placed cross from defender Sergio Ramos.

Lithuania midfielder Darvydas Sernas tied it by racing through the middle and shooting past Iker Casillas in the 54th. But Llorente added his second just two minutes later when he headed in a cross from Santi Cazorla.

David Silva jumped high to head in a free kick by Ramos to score his 10th international goal in the 79th minute.

Defending champion Spain leads Group I on six points after two matches. Scotland is second with four points in three matches and hosts Spain on Tuesday, Oct. 12.