Spain lay down marker with fully deserved win in France

SPAIN gave further proof of why they are one of the favourites for World Cup glory this summer after seeing off France 2-0 in Paris last night to continue their phenomenal run of form.

The Euro 2008 winners and upcoming Scotland opponents deservedly clinched their first win over their northern neighbours on French soil since 1968 thanks to first-half goals from David Villa and Sergio Ramos.

In Amsterdam, Dirk Kuyt and Klaas Jan Huntelaar grabbed the goals as Holland beat fellow World Cup qualifiers the United States 2-1

Motherwell defender Stephen Craigan should have been celebrating his first goals for Northern Ireland in his 46th international appearance.

Instead his luck was out in last night's friendly in Tirana as he saw both efforts come back off the woodwork in the second-half as his side chased the game against Albania.

A makeshift Northern Ireland side improved in this period but were unable to get the equaliser after Ervin Skela's superb goal for the hosts in the 25th minute.

It means there was no end to a dreadful away record which has seen them record only three victories in 22 matches.

In Swansea, Bolton striker Johan Elmander stunned Wales with a brilliant winner for Sweden in their friendly.

Elmander, who has scored just twice in the Premier League this season, showed quality rarely seen at the Reebok Stadium with a fine strike on the stroke of half-time.