Latin nations in draw

Argentina will be happiest with that result after spending much of the game resolutely defending.

Spain's Santiago Freixa had the first chance of the match after 11 minutes, his penalty corner flick deflecting off Argentina goalkeeper Juan Manuel Vivaldi's pads and striking the post before running to safety.

Spain continued to keep possession of the ball but struggled to make chances and it was Argentina who found the backboard first, Pedro Ibarra smashing the ball towards goal in the last minute of the first half. Unfortunately for them, he was outside the circle and no other Argentina player had touched it, so the goal did not stand.

Just as Spain seemed unable to replicate the stunning performance that saw them humiliate Olympic champions Australia on Thursday, they scored.

Xavi Ribas played a flat ball, saved by Vivaldi and Edu Tubau knocked across the rebound with Ramon Alegre lurking for the tip in at the far post. He was not needed as the ball found the target.

That was five minutes into the second half and galvanised Argentina in the immediate moments that followed.

Matias Vila was fouled near the edge of the circle and the ball fell to Matias Paredes, who shot from the middle and struck the crossbar.

The action began to get physical as the sides fought for precious points, Argentina particularly desperate after an opening loss to New Zealand.

On 49 minutes they got back into the game. The ball ricocheted around the crowded area in front of Spain's goal before first Vila then Matias Cammareri got enough contact on it to find the top of the net.

Despite threatening attacks from both teams in the final twenty minutes, neither could provide a finishing touch and the score-line read 1-1 at the hooter.