Spain took a giant leap forwards towards the goal of qualifying for Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan by outclassing Chile 54-10 in a test match played in Torrelavega this afternoon.

Head Coach Santiago Santos was understandably happy in his post-match interview when he said “we are very satisfied with the result and the positive incorporation of new players”.

Of those representing Spain a large number were qualifying on eligibility. Spain’s quest to return to a first World Cup since 1999 has seen an open policy of selecting French players who meet World Rugby’s laws to represent a country other than their own.

Only time will tell as to whether or not Spain will have a stronger chance than in previous qualifying campaigns but the signs are that this Spanish team could go very far. Chile, in contrast, appear to have a lot of work to do in short time to be ready for the Americas Rugby Cup which starts in February.

Chilean Head Coach Paul Healy praised the performance of the opposition “Spain were much superior today. He committed many errors”.

Healy and his team will now return home ranked lower in the World Rankings. Spain entered the match ranked 22nd, just two places above Los Condores. With Russia also winning against Hong Kong and Portugal overcoming Zimbabwe changes are inevitable.

Chilean eyes will now turn to Americas Rugby Cup rivals, Brazil who face Germany in two test matches, the first of which is next Saturday in Santa Catarina.