Madrid - Spain beat Argentina 2-1 in a high-profile friendly in rainy Madrid on Saturday, with Xabi Alonso scoring both goals for the hosts. Alonso gave Spain the lead in the 16th minute, Lionel Messi levelled for Argentina in the 66th - only for Alonso to make it 2-1 just four minutes from time.
The tight win confirms Spain's status as one of the favourites for the 2012 World Cup, while also demonstrating that Diego Maradona still has a lot of work to do with his Argentine team.
On Sunday Maradona will travel to Zurich to appear before a FIFA disciplinary committee with regard to his obscene comments after October's World Cup qualifying clash against Uruguay.
The Madrid friendly commemorated the centenary of the Spanish football federation.
Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas was given a special tribute to mark his 100th international appearance - and there was a minute's silence in memory of German keeper Robert Enke, who committed suicide on Tuesday.
Casillas, the Spanish captain, said, "I am very sorry about Enke."
He added that "it is always a hard match against Argentina, but I am pleased ... because we showed tonight that we can fight as well as play nicely."
Spain were in the driving seat from the start, with their slick passing game causing all kinds of problems for the Argentine defence.
In the 16th minute, a clever move between Andres Iniesta and Joan Capdevila lead to David Silva forcing a sharp save out of Sergio Romero - but Alonso followed up to poke the ball home with his left foot.
Angel de Maria should have levelled for Argentina just before half-time but naively shot over the crossbar, with only Casillas to beat.
In the 66th minute, Argentina were given a disputed penalty for a clumsy tackle by Raul Albiol on Maxi Rodriguez. Messi, turning in another dull display for his country, made no mistake from the spot.
Spain resumed control and were revitalized by the entry of Sevilla right-winger Jesus Navas, finally making his international debut after overcoming his anxiety attacks.
In the 86th minute, Martin Demichelis handled in the penalty area and Xabi Alonso restored Spain's lead from the spot.
