FRANCE spoiled David Beckham’s 100th appearance for England and Spain beat World Cup champion Italy in friendly games Wednesday.

With England failing to qualify for Euro 2008, the team hoped for a win to mark Beckham’s momentous appearance for his national team. But Franck Ribery scored from the penalty spot in the 32nd minute after England goalkeeper David James raced off his line and fouled Nicolas Anelka.

Beckham got a yellow card and was taken off in the 62nd minute.

“I was happy to start the game, but it was more about getting on the pitch, getting that 100th cap,” said Beckham. He didn’t have a shot on goal, made little impression with his trademark long passes and spent much of his time covering for right back Wes Brown.

The Spaniards won on a 78th-minute volley from David Villa. The Valencia striker met Fabio Cannavaro’s headed clearance just inside the area and curled his shot past outstretched goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon into the top left of the goal.

(SD-Agencies)