World Cup: New York City FC star forward David Villa scores opening goal for Spain vs. Australia

Simon Borg

New York City FC signing David Villa gave Spain manager Vicente del Bosque something to think about on Monday.

Could Spain have salvaged their World Cup campaign had del Bosque just started Villa in their previous two matches?

READ: Villa to play in Australia before joining NYCFC for 2015 expansion season

The former La Liga star scored a spectacular 37th minute goal, flicking a cross with his heel into the back of the net for his 9th career World Cup goal, the most ever by a Spain player.

WATCH VILLA'S GOAL HERE

New York City FC announced Villa as the first signing in club history on June 2, before he traveled to Brazil with the defending World Cup champions.

.@JasonKreis will find this useful next season. (Even though MLS defending will be MUCH better) pic.twitter.com/IP19pviKek
— Mark McClure (@mrkmcclr) June 23, 2014

David Villa scores his 9th #WorldCup goal, the most all-time by a Spain player. #AUSvsESP.
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) June 23, 2014

Spain leads Australia 1-0 at the half. Here's a look at the 14-pass build-up to David Villa's 1st-half goal: pic.twitter.com/LMEOlNSooE
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) June 23, 2014

Villa was substituted early in the second half and left the field in tears, kissing the Spain badge as he walked off.

David Villa emotional after sub for final time at #WorldCup 97 caps, 59 goals, a WC & 2 Euro Championships with #ESP pic.twitter.com/mu0ZyTE2o4
— 90min (@90min_Football) June 23, 2014

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