Spain have a 1-0 lead over Australia at the break in their World Cup encounter in Parana.
Spain looked the more dangerous early on, though it took them until the 20-minute mark to create their first proper opening as David Villa fired high and wide at the back post after being picked out by Andres Iniesta.
The reigning champions started to up the tempo after that, and they came close to grabbing a second when Fernando Torres almost converted Koke's cross.
The Spaniards finally made the breakthrough on 36 minutes as Villa got on the end of Juanfran's pass after the full-back had been sent clear with an incisive ball from Iniesta.
They had a great chance to double their advantage in the final minute of the half when Koke's powerful effort hit the post before going out.
