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..::Football III::..
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Belgium 0-0 France: Another blank for blunt Bleus in Brussels
Belgium were held to a 0-0 draw by neighbours France on Wednesday evening, after failing to take their chances at the Stade Roi Baudouin.
Kevin de Bruyne was the stand-out performer for the hosts and set up Chelsea team-mates Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku on a number of occasions, but Marc Wilmots' men failed to make the breakthrough despite dominating proceedings.
PSV teenager Zakaria Bakkali missed out for Belgium after suffering a thigh strain in training, while Tottenham defender Jan Vertonghen was absent from the squad.
For France, Eric Abidal was named in the starting XI for his first international appearance since February 2012, having battled cancer and undergone a liver transplant in the interim.
As expected, it was a fiery opening 15 minutes as both sides conceded a number of fouls, including Vincent Kompany, who caught Mathieu Valbuena with a stray elbow.
Karim Benzema made a bright start, though, and forced Thibaut Courtois into a smart save at his near post in the 11th minute, just moments after almost connecting with a Franck Ribery cross.
However, it was Belgium who had the best chance of the opening exchanges, when De Bruyne beat Gael Clichy and crossed for Lukaku inside the six-yard box, only to see Laurent Koscielny clear.
The hosts continued to push France back into their own half throughout the first 30 minutes as Hazard had an effort from the edge of the area saved well by Hugo Lloris, before De Bruyne saw his dangerous through-ball to Hazard intercepted well by Koscielny.
De Bruyne was at the heart of all Belgium's attacks and should have put his side ahead in the 37th minute, but he dragged his effort wide, after Koscielny had cleared Nacer Chadli’s cross.
Ribery almost forced a breakthrough for France just before half-time but his dangerous ball across the face of goal was turned behind by Kompany to deny Benzema a tap-in, before the latter blazed over the crossbar following another great pass from the Bayern Munich star.
France went close to gifting the hosts the opening goal shortly after the restart when Sagna played a dangerous pass back to Lloris, with the goalkeeper having to scuff the ball out for a corner.
Abidal committed the same error just a few seconds later, this time forcing Lloris to dribble past Lukaku, who was hurtling towards goal.
Sebastien Pocognoli fired a good chance high over the bar and Alex Witsel poked wide from a corner as numerous Belgium opportunities went begging.
The best chance fell to Lukaku on the hour mark, though. De Bruyne squared the ball across goal, after a brilliant backheel from Chadli, but the striker was unable to connect with his outstretched leg and convert.
France hit back, but Courtois was on hand to save Benzema’s close-range effort, with Ribery again at the heart of things.
Both managers tried to force a late winner with a string of substitutions, including Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud, who volleyed high over the bar during the closing stages as France almost nicked a winner.
Belgium were held to a 0-0 draw by neighbours France on Wednesday evening, after failing to take their chances at the Stade Roi Baudouin.
Kevin de Bruyne was the stand-out performer for the hosts and set up Chelsea team-mates Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku on a number of occasions, but Marc Wilmots' men failed to make the breakthrough despite dominating proceedings.
PSV teenager Zakaria Bakkali missed out for Belgium after suffering a thigh strain in training, while Tottenham defender Jan Vertonghen was absent from the squad.
For France, Eric Abidal was named in the starting XI for his first international appearance since February 2012, having battled cancer and undergone a liver transplant in the interim.
As expected, it was a fiery opening 15 minutes as both sides conceded a number of fouls, including Vincent Kompany, who caught Mathieu Valbuena with a stray elbow.
Karim Benzema made a bright start, though, and forced Thibaut Courtois into a smart save at his near post in the 11th minute, just moments after almost connecting with a Franck Ribery cross.
However, it was Belgium who had the best chance of the opening exchanges, when De Bruyne beat Gael Clichy and crossed for Lukaku inside the six-yard box, only to see Laurent Koscielny clear.
The hosts continued to push France back into their own half throughout the first 30 minutes as Hazard had an effort from the edge of the area saved well by Hugo Lloris, before De Bruyne saw his dangerous through-ball to Hazard intercepted well by Koscielny.
De Bruyne was at the heart of all Belgium's attacks and should have put his side ahead in the 37th minute, but he dragged his effort wide, after Koscielny had cleared Nacer Chadli’s cross.
Ribery almost forced a breakthrough for France just before half-time but his dangerous ball across the face of goal was turned behind by Kompany to deny Benzema a tap-in, before the latter blazed over the crossbar following another great pass from the Bayern Munich star.
France went close to gifting the hosts the opening goal shortly after the restart when Sagna played a dangerous pass back to Lloris, with the goalkeeper having to scuff the ball out for a corner.
Abidal committed the same error just a few seconds later, this time forcing Lloris to dribble past Lukaku, who was hurtling towards goal.
Sebastien Pocognoli fired a good chance high over the bar and Alex Witsel poked wide from a corner as numerous Belgium opportunities went begging.
The best chance fell to Lukaku on the hour mark, though. De Bruyne squared the ball across goal, after a brilliant backheel from Chadli, but the striker was unable to connect with his outstretched leg and convert.
France hit back, but Courtois was on hand to save Benzema’s close-range effort, with Ribery again at the heart of things.
Both managers tried to force a late winner with a string of substitutions, including Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud, who volleyed high over the bar during the closing stages as France almost nicked a winner.
Bosnia-Herzegovina 3-4 United States: Altidore hat-trick clinches Americans' 12th straight win
The United States are beginning to become a force around the world.
Jozy Altidore claimed a hat-trick and an assist to help the US turn a two-goal deficit into a stunning 4-3 victory over 13th-ranked Bosnia-Herzegovina in a friendly at the Asim Ferhatović Hase Stadium on Wednesday.
The Stars and Stripes extended their all-time record winning streak to 12 games and they did it with an experimental side that featured a mix of veterans and four players earning their first senior caps.
Altidore has been on fire since June's World Cup qualifiers and continued that form with a part in all four goals, assisting Eddie Johnson's opener prior to his treble.
Edin Dzeko and Vedad Ibisevic scored for Bosnia-Herzegovina, who entered the match undefeated in six UEFA World Cup qualifying matches.
The US, who haven't lost since May, moved ahead of rival Mexico to 19th in the latest FIFA rankings and could be even higher after this result.
The Americans defeated second-ranked Germany at the beginning of June and breezed through three World cup qualifiers before easily taking first place in the 2013 Gold Cup.
For at least a half against Bosnia-Herzegovina, however, it looked as though their storybook summer would end on a low note.
Dzeko scored in the eighth minute, putting his own rebound past US goalkeeper Tim Howard. In the 30th minute, Ibisevic had a near-post header to give the hosts a two-goal edge at half-time.
The second half started better for the Americans thanks to beautiful combination play between three of the most experienced players on the squad. In the 55th minute, Michael Bradley passed over the top to Altidore, who tapped it across the keeper to Johnson for an 18-yard strike.
Four minutes later, Altidore got a goal of his own after Fabian Johnson set up the new Sunderland player for a one-touch finish. He had his second with a brilliant free kick and capped off his hat-trick in the 86th minute, which was enough of a cushion for the US to still walk away with a win despite a late Dzeko goal.
While Altidore was the star of the show, coach Jurgen Klinsmann was able to get a good look at Aron Jóhannsson, who recently completed a switch from Iceland to the US. The youngster replaced Johnson in the 63rd minute.
The United States are beginning to become a force around the world.
Jozy Altidore claimed a hat-trick and an assist to help the US turn a two-goal deficit into a stunning 4-3 victory over 13th-ranked Bosnia-Herzegovina in a friendly at the Asim Ferhatović Hase Stadium on Wednesday.
The Stars and Stripes extended their all-time record winning streak to 12 games and they did it with an experimental side that featured a mix of veterans and four players earning their first senior caps.
Altidore has been on fire since June's World Cup qualifiers and continued that form with a part in all four goals, assisting Eddie Johnson's opener prior to his treble.
Edin Dzeko and Vedad Ibisevic scored for Bosnia-Herzegovina, who entered the match undefeated in six UEFA World Cup qualifying matches.
The US, who haven't lost since May, moved ahead of rival Mexico to 19th in the latest FIFA rankings and could be even higher after this result.
The Americans defeated second-ranked Germany at the beginning of June and breezed through three World cup qualifiers before easily taking first place in the 2013 Gold Cup.
For at least a half against Bosnia-Herzegovina, however, it looked as though their storybook summer would end on a low note.
Dzeko scored in the eighth minute, putting his own rebound past US goalkeeper Tim Howard. In the 30th minute, Ibisevic had a near-post header to give the hosts a two-goal edge at half-time.
The second half started better for the Americans thanks to beautiful combination play between three of the most experienced players on the squad. In the 55th minute, Michael Bradley passed over the top to Altidore, who tapped it across the keeper to Johnson for an 18-yard strike.
Four minutes later, Altidore got a goal of his own after Fabian Johnson set up the new Sunderland player for a one-touch finish. He had his second with a brilliant free kick and capped off his hat-trick in the 86th minute, which was enough of a cushion for the US to still walk away with a win despite a late Dzeko goal.
While Altidore was the star of the show, coach Jurgen Klinsmann was able to get a good look at Aron Jóhannsson, who recently completed a switch from Iceland to the US. The youngster replaced Johnson in the 63rd minute.
England 3-2 Scotland: Lambert's debut goal saves Hodgson's blushes
A goal from debutant Rickie Lambert gave England a 3-2 win against Scotland in a thrilling friendly at Wembley.
The Southampton forward headed home a corner with his first touch after coming on as a second-half substitute to hand the hosts victory in the first meeting between the bitter rivals in 14 years.
James Morrison and Kenny Miller had twice given the Scots the lead earlier in the match, only for Theo Walcott and Danny Welbeck to cancel out the visitors' advantage.
Lambert's goal provided a fitting end to a fabulous contest, which saw England avenge their 1999 defeat to the Tartan Army at Wembley.
Roy Hodgson named a strong side for the encounter, making the most of a rare opportunity to field Jack Wilshere alongside Steven Gerrard in midfield while Wayne Rooney ended all doubts about his injury status by starting up front.
The game certainly started in a confrontational manner, with the booing of national anthems setting the scene for some feisty early tackles in an intense opening.
England eventually carved out the first real chance among the melee, though Rooney could only scuff Leighton Baines' cross from the left beyond the far post.
Scotland made them pay for that miss with just 11 minutes on the clock, as Morrison's well-hit strike from the edge of the box squirmed underneath Joe Hart's poor attempt to save to send the visiting fans into raptures.
It took until the 26th minute for the hosts to provide the home fans with something to cheer, as Tom Cleverley went close following a delightful lay-off inside the box from Rooney.
Just three minutes later, they were level. Walcott darted in from the right to latch on to a well-weighted Cleverley through-ball, deceived Steven Whittaker, and squeezed the ball in left footed at the near post to restore parity.
The hosts were much improved after their equaliser, and they were only denied a second goal shortly before the break by an incorrect decision from the assistant referee.
Rooney was the unlucky recipient of the officials' attentions, with the striker wrongly flagged offside after collecting a Gerrard ball in the box on his chest and controlling to fire home.
Wilshere was the only man to depart at half-time, as the Arsenal midfielder made way for Frank Lampard with his troubling injury record clearly in mind, but there was little time for England to adjust to the tactical consequences of that switch before they found themselves behind for a second time.
Miller did brilliantly to hold the ball up on the edge of the box before turning a hapless Gary Cahill to smash home on his left foot, much to the dismay of the shell-shocked hosts.
But, unlike in the first half, it did not take long for England to muster a reply.
Just two minutes after Allan McGregor produced a brilliant save to keep out Gerrard's deflected free-kick, the England captain picked out Welbeck with another pin-point set-piece delivery which the Manchester United forward gratefully headed in.
A flurry of substitutions from both sides, which saw Lambert handed his debut, followed - and the striker soon had his dream moment.
The 31-year-old rose highest to meet a Baines corner from the left and directed the ball brilliantly home with his head to put the hosts ahead for the first time in the match in the 70th minute.
Chances were at a premium for the remainder of the game, but Lambert had one last opportunity to double his account in the dying moments.
However, the striker could only hit the post from close range following a cross from the right, though it is unlikely the miss will play on his mind much after a near-perfect debut.
A goal from debutant Rickie Lambert gave England a 3-2 win against Scotland in a thrilling friendly at Wembley.
The Southampton forward headed home a corner with his first touch after coming on as a second-half substitute to hand the hosts victory in the first meeting between the bitter rivals in 14 years.
James Morrison and Kenny Miller had twice given the Scots the lead earlier in the match, only for Theo Walcott and Danny Welbeck to cancel out the visitors' advantage.
Lambert's goal provided a fitting end to a fabulous contest, which saw England avenge their 1999 defeat to the Tartan Army at Wembley.
Roy Hodgson named a strong side for the encounter, making the most of a rare opportunity to field Jack Wilshere alongside Steven Gerrard in midfield while Wayne Rooney ended all doubts about his injury status by starting up front.
The game certainly started in a confrontational manner, with the booing of national anthems setting the scene for some feisty early tackles in an intense opening.
England eventually carved out the first real chance among the melee, though Rooney could only scuff Leighton Baines' cross from the left beyond the far post.
Scotland made them pay for that miss with just 11 minutes on the clock, as Morrison's well-hit strike from the edge of the box squirmed underneath Joe Hart's poor attempt to save to send the visiting fans into raptures.
It took until the 26th minute for the hosts to provide the home fans with something to cheer, as Tom Cleverley went close following a delightful lay-off inside the box from Rooney.
Just three minutes later, they were level. Walcott darted in from the right to latch on to a well-weighted Cleverley through-ball, deceived Steven Whittaker, and squeezed the ball in left footed at the near post to restore parity.
The hosts were much improved after their equaliser, and they were only denied a second goal shortly before the break by an incorrect decision from the assistant referee.
Rooney was the unlucky recipient of the officials' attentions, with the striker wrongly flagged offside after collecting a Gerrard ball in the box on his chest and controlling to fire home.
Wilshere was the only man to depart at half-time, as the Arsenal midfielder made way for Frank Lampard with his troubling injury record clearly in mind, but there was little time for England to adjust to the tactical consequences of that switch before they found themselves behind for a second time.
Miller did brilliantly to hold the ball up on the edge of the box before turning a hapless Gary Cahill to smash home on his left foot, much to the dismay of the shell-shocked hosts.
But, unlike in the first half, it did not take long for England to muster a reply.
Just two minutes after Allan McGregor produced a brilliant save to keep out Gerrard's deflected free-kick, the England captain picked out Welbeck with another pin-point set-piece delivery which the Manchester United forward gratefully headed in.
A flurry of substitutions from both sides, which saw Lambert handed his debut, followed - and the striker soon had his dream moment.
The 31-year-old rose highest to meet a Baines corner from the left and directed the ball brilliantly home with his head to put the hosts ahead for the first time in the match in the 70th minute.
Chances were at a premium for the remainder of the game, but Lambert had one last opportunity to double his account in the dying moments.
However, the striker could only hit the post from close range following a cross from the right, though it is unlikely the miss will play on his mind much after a near-perfect debut.
Germany 3-3 Paraguay: Low blow avoided as Bender snatches draw
Germany were forced to twice come from behind to snatch a 3-3 draw with Paraguay, after an absorbing friendly encounter in Kaiserslautern on Wednesday night.
Both sides named strong line-ups ahead of their final FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with two goals in four first-half minutes from Jose Nunez and Wilson Pittoni putting Paraguay ahead before Ilkay Gundogan and Thomas Mueller drew Germany level.
Miguel Samudio put the visitors back in front on the stroke of half-time before a second-half Lars Bender strike ensured the hosts avoided consecutive friendly defeats.
Germany coach Joachim Low was without injured trio Mario Gotze, Julian Draxler and Bastian Schweinsteiger, but Gundogan and Marco Reus were among the returning contingent, despite fitness doubts before the game.
Paraguay's record goalscorer Roque Santa Cruz was recalled to Victor Genes' starting line-up, while Justo Villar made his 100th appearance for Paraguay in goal.
The strength of Germany's line-up, going into the final round of World Cup qualifiers which start in September, showed how serious Low was taking the friendly and he will have been pleased with his side's start to the game.
A Reus free-kick forced an early save from Villar before Gundogan and Klose both had efforts from inside the area.
However, Nunez gave his side the lead against the run of play after nine minutes when he dispatched a long ball past Manuel Neuer.
Klose should have equalised for Germany shortly after when he was played through by Gundogan, but, while his dink beat Villar, it also went over the crossbar.
Pittoni then doubled Paraguay's lead after 13 minutes, following poor German defending.
The Olimpia midfielder struck a half-volley after a bad clearance which deflected off Sami Khedira and past Neuer to put Paraguay in control.
The goals kept coming, although it was the hosts finally making headway. Gundogan clawed one back after 18 minutes, hitting a deft curling strike which evaded Villar, who could only get a hand to the ball.
The Borussia Dortmund midfielder also showed his value at the other end, clearing a corner off the line before being forced off with a back problem to be replaced by Bender.
Germany restored parity 31 minutes in as Mueller stayed onside and controlled a lofted ball under pressure from the onrushing Villar before calmly rolling the ball past the goalkeeper.
However, Paraguay ensured they went in ahead at the break when Santa Cruz squared for Samudio to score from close range on the stroke of half-time.
Mario Gomez replaced Klose early in the second half and he had a quick impact, forcing a good save from Villar after 57 minutes.
Fellow substitute Jerome Boateng then rifled a shot over the bar after 71 minutes before Muller fired across goal shortly after.
However, Germany's search for an equaliser ended three minutes later when Bender latched on to a loose clearance and fired home to make it 3-3.
Andre Schurrle had a late chance but could only blaze over from close range after waves of Germany pressure.
Next up for both sides are final batches of World Cup qualifiers, with UEFA Group C leaders Germany hosting Austria in September while Paraguay, who sit bottom of CONMEBOL qualifying, host Bolivia in the same month.
Germany were forced to twice come from behind to snatch a 3-3 draw with Paraguay, after an absorbing friendly encounter in Kaiserslautern on Wednesday night.
Both sides named strong line-ups ahead of their final FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with two goals in four first-half minutes from Jose Nunez and Wilson Pittoni putting Paraguay ahead before Ilkay Gundogan and Thomas Mueller drew Germany level.
Miguel Samudio put the visitors back in front on the stroke of half-time before a second-half Lars Bender strike ensured the hosts avoided consecutive friendly defeats.
Germany coach Joachim Low was without injured trio Mario Gotze, Julian Draxler and Bastian Schweinsteiger, but Gundogan and Marco Reus were among the returning contingent, despite fitness doubts before the game.
Paraguay's record goalscorer Roque Santa Cruz was recalled to Victor Genes' starting line-up, while Justo Villar made his 100th appearance for Paraguay in goal.
The strength of Germany's line-up, going into the final round of World Cup qualifiers which start in September, showed how serious Low was taking the friendly and he will have been pleased with his side's start to the game.
A Reus free-kick forced an early save from Villar before Gundogan and Klose both had efforts from inside the area.
However, Nunez gave his side the lead against the run of play after nine minutes when he dispatched a long ball past Manuel Neuer.
Klose should have equalised for Germany shortly after when he was played through by Gundogan, but, while his dink beat Villar, it also went over the crossbar.
Pittoni then doubled Paraguay's lead after 13 minutes, following poor German defending.
The Olimpia midfielder struck a half-volley after a bad clearance which deflected off Sami Khedira and past Neuer to put Paraguay in control.
The goals kept coming, although it was the hosts finally making headway. Gundogan clawed one back after 18 minutes, hitting a deft curling strike which evaded Villar, who could only get a hand to the ball.
The Borussia Dortmund midfielder also showed his value at the other end, clearing a corner off the line before being forced off with a back problem to be replaced by Bender.
Germany restored parity 31 minutes in as Mueller stayed onside and controlled a lofted ball under pressure from the onrushing Villar before calmly rolling the ball past the goalkeeper.
However, Paraguay ensured they went in ahead at the break when Santa Cruz squared for Samudio to score from close range on the stroke of half-time.
Mario Gomez replaced Klose early in the second half and he had a quick impact, forcing a good save from Villar after 57 minutes.
Fellow substitute Jerome Boateng then rifled a shot over the bar after 71 minutes before Muller fired across goal shortly after.
However, Germany's search for an equaliser ended three minutes later when Bender latched on to a loose clearance and fired home to make it 3-3.
Andre Schurrle had a late chance but could only blaze over from close range after waves of Germany pressure.
Next up for both sides are final batches of World Cup qualifiers, with UEFA Group C leaders Germany hosting Austria in September while Paraguay, who sit bottom of CONMEBOL qualifying, host Bolivia in the same month.
Italy 1-2 Argentina: Higuain strikes as Albiceleste survive Azzurri fightback
Gonzalo Higuain inspired Argentina to a 2-1 win against Italy at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday.
The Napoli striker troubled the hosts' defence on several occasions and deservedly finished the evening with a goal and an assist before being replaced after 60 minutes.
Argentina substitute Ever Banega doubled the advantage after half-time.
Lorenzo Insigne grabbed a consolation for Italy with a terrific curling effort with 15 minutes remaining, but, the home side, who had an offisde goal disallowed, could not find an equaliser.
The visitors were brighter initially, with Higuain looking particularly threatening in the opposition box. He had a shooting opportunity as early as the third minute but his tame effort was easily held by Gianluigi Buffon.
Italy's slow start was deservedly punished five minutes later. Marco Verratti gifted possession to Erik Lamela 35 yards from the Azzurri's goal and his pinpoint pass with the outside of his boot found Higuain in the box, who cut inside De Rossi to fire past Buffon.
The setback sparked Cesare Prandelli's men into action but they failed to carve out clear-cut opportunities, despite having claims for a penalty turned down.
Antonio Candreva was a real thorn in the Argentina defence, first delivering a cross that just evaded Pablo Osvaldo's outstretched boot before a teasing ball into the box was met by Claudio Marchisio, who inexplicably miskicked his effort straight to Albiceleste goalkeeper Mariano Andujar.
And they were nearly punished for their wastefulness when Angel Di Maria picked out Rodrigo Palacio at the back post, but the Inter forward failed to connect properly.
Lamela was surprisingly withdrawn at half-time to be replaced by Banega, but the decision was almost immediately justified with the substitute doubling the advantage in the 49th minute.
Higuain picked up the ball on the left-hand side of the box and laid into the path of the on-rushing Banega, who took one touch before striking firmly across Buffon into the left-hand corner.
Buffon was replaced in the 55th minute by Federico Marchetti and the goalkeeper was called into immediate action to make a fantastic double save.
Italy then had the ball in the back of the net in the 68th minute through Alberto Aquilani but the linesman raised his flag for offside.
However, with 15 minutes remaining, the home side did reduce the deficit when Insigne hit a sublime curling effort into the top right-hand corner from 20 yards.
Italy continued to push for the equaliser but they once again had Marchetti to thank as he produced a stunning save from Fernandez's bending shot in the 89th minute.
Argentina head into their World Cup qualifier with Paraguay in September full of confidence, while Italy will take heart from a spirited performance as they host Bulgaria and Czech Republic in the same month as they look to seal qualification to Brazil in 2014.
Gonzalo Higuain inspired Argentina to a 2-1 win against Italy at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday.
The Napoli striker troubled the hosts' defence on several occasions and deservedly finished the evening with a goal and an assist before being replaced after 60 minutes.
Argentina substitute Ever Banega doubled the advantage after half-time.
Lorenzo Insigne grabbed a consolation for Italy with a terrific curling effort with 15 minutes remaining, but, the home side, who had an offisde goal disallowed, could not find an equaliser.
The visitors were brighter initially, with Higuain looking particularly threatening in the opposition box. He had a shooting opportunity as early as the third minute but his tame effort was easily held by Gianluigi Buffon.
Italy's slow start was deservedly punished five minutes later. Marco Verratti gifted possession to Erik Lamela 35 yards from the Azzurri's goal and his pinpoint pass with the outside of his boot found Higuain in the box, who cut inside De Rossi to fire past Buffon.
The setback sparked Cesare Prandelli's men into action but they failed to carve out clear-cut opportunities, despite having claims for a penalty turned down.
Antonio Candreva was a real thorn in the Argentina defence, first delivering a cross that just evaded Pablo Osvaldo's outstretched boot before a teasing ball into the box was met by Claudio Marchisio, who inexplicably miskicked his effort straight to Albiceleste goalkeeper Mariano Andujar.
And they were nearly punished for their wastefulness when Angel Di Maria picked out Rodrigo Palacio at the back post, but the Inter forward failed to connect properly.
Lamela was surprisingly withdrawn at half-time to be replaced by Banega, but the decision was almost immediately justified with the substitute doubling the advantage in the 49th minute.
Higuain picked up the ball on the left-hand side of the box and laid into the path of the on-rushing Banega, who took one touch before striking firmly across Buffon into the left-hand corner.
Buffon was replaced in the 55th minute by Federico Marchetti and the goalkeeper was called into immediate action to make a fantastic double save.
Italy then had the ball in the back of the net in the 68th minute through Alberto Aquilani but the linesman raised his flag for offside.
However, with 15 minutes remaining, the home side did reduce the deficit when Insigne hit a sublime curling effort into the top right-hand corner from 20 yards.
Italy continued to push for the equaliser but they once again had Marchetti to thank as he produced a stunning save from Fernandez's bending shot in the 89th minute.
Argentina head into their World Cup qualifier with Paraguay in September full of confidence, while Italy will take heart from a spirited performance as they host Bulgaria and Czech Republic in the same month as they look to seal qualification to Brazil in 2014.
Wales 0-0 Republic of Ireland: Friendly clash fails to ignite in Cardiff
A sparsely populated Cardiff City Stadium played host to an uninspiring 0-0 draw between Wales and the Republic of Ireland on Wednesday.
With both sides missing key personnel, the game lacked quality and chances were few and far between.
Craig Bellamy registered the game's first shot on target, but his long-range free-kick failed to break the deadlock.The best two chances fell to Ireland's Shane Long, who fired one effort over the bar and another straight at Boaz Myhill.Ireland came into the match in good form; the 2-0 friendly defeat to Spain in their last game was their first defeat in seven matches.
All the talk in the build-up had focussed on Gareth Bale, whose future at Tottenham remains in doubt, but the Real Madrid transfer target's foot injury kept him sidelined.Aaron Ramsey and James Collins also missed out with injuries, leaving Wales with a severely weakened team.
Robbie Keane was among the Irish absentees, but John O'Shea earned his 90th cap for the visitors, who were looking to continue an unbeaten record against Wales stretching back to 1992.Ireland dominated possession in the opening stages, passing through the opposition midfield with confidence, but lacked the penetration necessary to endanger their opponents' goal.
Glenn Whelan dragged a shot wide from inside the box after 22 minutes in a rare first-half openingRobbie Brady then went close with a rasping drive on his weaker foot before Long missed a great chance to open the scoring, ballooning his effort over the bar from 12 yards.
As half-time approached, Wes Hoolahan saw an excellent curling effort go just wide of the right upright after his quick footwork made space for the shot on the left.Bellamy's free-kick from 40 yards out was easily saved by Kieren Westwood, but that was the closest Wales came to scoring.
Ireland came close to an opener at the other end when Long rose highest to meet James McClean's corner, but the West Brom striker could only head over the bar.
Long again had a great chance to score when he burst through on goal late on before firing straight at Myhill.The game looked to be in danger of petering out as both managers made several second-half substitutions, which included giving an Ireland debut to Yeovil Town's Paddy Madden.But Ireland produced a late flurry, with Jonathan Walters and Madden both testing Myhill as the visitors searched fruitlessly for a winner.
A sparsely populated Cardiff City Stadium played host to an uninspiring 0-0 draw between Wales and the Republic of Ireland on Wednesday.
With both sides missing key personnel, the game lacked quality and chances were few and far between.
Craig Bellamy registered the game's first shot on target, but his long-range free-kick failed to break the deadlock.The best two chances fell to Ireland's Shane Long, who fired one effort over the bar and another straight at Boaz Myhill.Ireland came into the match in good form; the 2-0 friendly defeat to Spain in their last game was their first defeat in seven matches.
All the talk in the build-up had focussed on Gareth Bale, whose future at Tottenham remains in doubt, but the Real Madrid transfer target's foot injury kept him sidelined.Aaron Ramsey and James Collins also missed out with injuries, leaving Wales with a severely weakened team.
Robbie Keane was among the Irish absentees, but John O'Shea earned his 90th cap for the visitors, who were looking to continue an unbeaten record against Wales stretching back to 1992.Ireland dominated possession in the opening stages, passing through the opposition midfield with confidence, but lacked the penetration necessary to endanger their opponents' goal.
Glenn Whelan dragged a shot wide from inside the box after 22 minutes in a rare first-half openingRobbie Brady then went close with a rasping drive on his weaker foot before Long missed a great chance to open the scoring, ballooning his effort over the bar from 12 yards.
As half-time approached, Wes Hoolahan saw an excellent curling effort go just wide of the right upright after his quick footwork made space for the shot on the left.Bellamy's free-kick from 40 yards out was easily saved by Kieren Westwood, but that was the closest Wales came to scoring.
Ireland came close to an opener at the other end when Long rose highest to meet James McClean's corner, but the West Brom striker could only head over the bar.
Long again had a great chance to score when he burst through on goal late on before firing straight at Myhill.The game looked to be in danger of petering out as both managers made several second-half substitutions, which included giving an Ireland debut to Yeovil Town's Paddy Madden.But Ireland produced a late flurry, with Jonathan Walters and Madden both testing Myhill as the visitors searched fruitlessly for a winner.
Northern Ireland 1-0 Russia: Paterson strike secures stunning first win for O'Neill
Martin Paterson's headed goal helped Northern Ireland secure the first win of their World Cup 2014 qualifying campaign by beating Fabio Capello's high-flying Russia.
The diminutive striker combined well with Niall McGinn throughout proceedings but the pair's efforts were rewarded with 43 minutes on the clock when Paterson thumped the ball home.
That was enough to give Northern Ireland fans a first victory to celebrate since August 2011, when they ran out 4-0 winners over minnows Faroe Islands, while it also marked manager Michael O'Neill's first victory in charge.
For Russia, however, it was a huge opportunity missed to return to the top of their group above Portugal.
With Jonny Evans and Kyle Lafferty both absent through injury and illness, and Chris Brunt suspended, Northern Ireland were forced to name goalkeeping coach Maik Taylor among the substitutes just to fill the bench.
Russia boss Fabio Capello, meanwhile, named only 30-year-old Aleksandr Kerzhakov up front as part of a line-up that included six in midfield.
Northern Ireland started brightly, with Aberdeen playmaker McGinn firing in two early sighters on goal in the opening couple of minutes - the second of which looped just past Igor Akinfeev's left-hand post.
However, Russia fought back and at the other end West Brom's Gareth McAuley was forced to snuff out the threat from Alan Dzagoev as he raced in on goal with a well-timed challenge.
The hosts’ early attacking pressure in the opening quarter soon subsided, and eventually Russia's quality began to tell as they got a real foothold in the game.
Russian winger Vladimir Bystrov linked well down the right with Dzagoev, causing young left-back Shane Ferguson problems.
Then, in the 34th minute, the impressive Dzagoev created space for striker Kerzakhov, but the Zenit St Petersburg man took too long to get his shot away and McAuley cleared up.
As half-time neared, the hosts certainly did not seem to be missing defender Chris Baird at the back - the 31-year-old having been overlooked for the squad as he is currently without a club.
And despite Russia's attacking intent, it was Northern Ireland who finished the half ahead.
Derby County's Jamie Ward had already gone close when he sent a dipping 25-yard shot onto the post after being sent through by a quick free kick from skipper Steve Davis.
And two minutes before the break Windsor Park was jumping.
McGinn was the architect when he whipped in cross from deep and Huddersfield Town striker Paterson leapt well above his man to head strongly into the corner - a remarkable feat considering that the 26-year-old was one of the smallest players on the pitch.
For the second period, Capello rung the changes as he tried to get Russia back into the contest.
The Italian brought on Artem Dzyuba and Denis Cheryshev, although the latter was forced off with an injury after just six minutes.
But Northern Ireland still probed for a second goal, and they nearly managed it close to the hour mark only to be denied by the assistant referee’s flag.
Again it was Paterson with his head who found the net via a McAuley knockdown, but the forward was adjudged to be just offside. TV replays proved the call to be correct and showed that the striker had strayed fractionally off.
The aerial threat again posed Russia problems 15 minutes later when Ferguson pushed down the left flank, lifting another high ball into the box, and this time Akinfeev flapped at the delivery. The ensuing scramble for the loose ball saw Paterson and Russia defender Vasiliy Berezutskiy booked.
The tenacity shown by Paterson was typical of the hosts, as they fought for everything going into the final 10 minutes. They were rarely tested in the closing stages as Windsor Park erupted at the final whistle.
Martin Paterson's headed goal helped Northern Ireland secure the first win of their World Cup 2014 qualifying campaign by beating Fabio Capello's high-flying Russia.
The diminutive striker combined well with Niall McGinn throughout proceedings but the pair's efforts were rewarded with 43 minutes on the clock when Paterson thumped the ball home.
That was enough to give Northern Ireland fans a first victory to celebrate since August 2011, when they ran out 4-0 winners over minnows Faroe Islands, while it also marked manager Michael O'Neill's first victory in charge.
For Russia, however, it was a huge opportunity missed to return to the top of their group above Portugal.
With Jonny Evans and Kyle Lafferty both absent through injury and illness, and Chris Brunt suspended, Northern Ireland were forced to name goalkeeping coach Maik Taylor among the substitutes just to fill the bench.
Russia boss Fabio Capello, meanwhile, named only 30-year-old Aleksandr Kerzhakov up front as part of a line-up that included six in midfield.
Northern Ireland started brightly, with Aberdeen playmaker McGinn firing in two early sighters on goal in the opening couple of minutes - the second of which looped just past Igor Akinfeev's left-hand post.
However, Russia fought back and at the other end West Brom's Gareth McAuley was forced to snuff out the threat from Alan Dzagoev as he raced in on goal with a well-timed challenge.
The hosts’ early attacking pressure in the opening quarter soon subsided, and eventually Russia's quality began to tell as they got a real foothold in the game.
Russian winger Vladimir Bystrov linked well down the right with Dzagoev, causing young left-back Shane Ferguson problems.
Then, in the 34th minute, the impressive Dzagoev created space for striker Kerzakhov, but the Zenit St Petersburg man took too long to get his shot away and McAuley cleared up.
As half-time neared, the hosts certainly did not seem to be missing defender Chris Baird at the back - the 31-year-old having been overlooked for the squad as he is currently without a club.
And despite Russia's attacking intent, it was Northern Ireland who finished the half ahead.
Derby County's Jamie Ward had already gone close when he sent a dipping 25-yard shot onto the post after being sent through by a quick free kick from skipper Steve Davis.
And two minutes before the break Windsor Park was jumping.
McGinn was the architect when he whipped in cross from deep and Huddersfield Town striker Paterson leapt well above his man to head strongly into the corner - a remarkable feat considering that the 26-year-old was one of the smallest players on the pitch.
For the second period, Capello rung the changes as he tried to get Russia back into the contest.
The Italian brought on Artem Dzyuba and Denis Cheryshev, although the latter was forced off with an injury after just six minutes.
But Northern Ireland still probed for a second goal, and they nearly managed it close to the hour mark only to be denied by the assistant referee’s flag.
Again it was Paterson with his head who found the net via a McAuley knockdown, but the forward was adjudged to be just offside. TV replays proved the call to be correct and showed that the striker had strayed fractionally off.
The aerial threat again posed Russia problems 15 minutes later when Ferguson pushed down the left flank, lifting another high ball into the box, and this time Akinfeev flapped at the delivery. The ensuing scramble for the loose ball saw Paterson and Russia defender Vasiliy Berezutskiy booked.
The tenacity shown by Paterson was typical of the hosts, as they fought for everything going into the final 10 minutes. They were rarely tested in the closing stages as Windsor Park erupted at the final whistle.
Switzerland 1-0 Brazil: Alves own goal hands Hitzfeld's men famous win
Switzerland brought an end to Brazil’s 11-match unbeaten run as Dani Alves headed into his own net to hand the hosts a shock 1-0 win.The Barcelona defender failed to control a swinging cross from Xherdan Shaqiri and put the ball through his own goal with 47 minutes gone.The victory for Switzerland marks their first since 1989 against the five-time world champions.
Hitzeld fielded a strong side for the match, including veteran Philippe Senderos as well as promising Bayern Munich youngster Shaqiri.His Brazil counterpart Luiz Felipe Scolari opted to stick with nine of the XI who had won the Confederations Cup final against Spain, with Julio Cesar and David Luiz absent.
The visitors started strongly, piling on the pressure – and it looked like they would be rewarded in the 11th minute when Fred shook off his man to feed Hulk, but quick reactions from Diego Benaglio saw the 27-year-old’s shot kept out.The home side continued to struggle to retain possession, and the Wolfsburg goalkeeper was called into action again a few minutes later. Hulk was once more involved as he charged at goal, but his shot fell well for Benaglio, who saved with his feet.
Switzerland did pose some threat on the break, but their finishing was wayward.
Tempers began to fray shortly before half-time, when Stephan Lichtsteiner was chopped down by Neymar, with the Barcelona striker earning a yellow card as referee Deniz Aytekin struggled to separate the players.
Brazil should have opened the scoring when Paulinho’s header came back off the crossbar, before Shaqiri tested Brazil goalkeeper Jefferson with a long-range effort at the other end.
At the break, the hosts withdrew Valentin Stocker for Tranquillo Barnetta, while 21-year-old Fabian Schaer made his international bow at the expense of Senderos.The changes reaped rewards within a few minutes, as Switzerland’s pressure ended with a cross from Shaqiri and Alves inadvertently headed past his own keeper.
Brazil's embarrassment was almost increased soon after when Jefferson failed to control a ball leading to a melee in the box, with Haris Seferovic just beaten to it by the Brazilian.Scolari opted to make three changes to force the game, with the most notable seeing 31-year-old Paris Saint-Germain defender Maxwell make his international debut while Fred – who has scored five in five for Brazil – left the field to be replaced by Jo.
That did not seem to help the visitors, who still found themselves battling against the impressive Swiss attack – which was typified through Shaqiri, who once again fired over the crossbar.Brazil attempted to fight back in the latter stages, going close through Jo, but debutant defender Michael Lang intercepted.
The loss marked the first for Brazil since February, while Switzerland gained a confidence-boosting win ahead of the resumption of their World Cup qualifying campaign.
Switzerland brought an end to Brazil’s 11-match unbeaten run as Dani Alves headed into his own net to hand the hosts a shock 1-0 win.The Barcelona defender failed to control a swinging cross from Xherdan Shaqiri and put the ball through his own goal with 47 minutes gone.The victory for Switzerland marks their first since 1989 against the five-time world champions.
Hitzeld fielded a strong side for the match, including veteran Philippe Senderos as well as promising Bayern Munich youngster Shaqiri.His Brazil counterpart Luiz Felipe Scolari opted to stick with nine of the XI who had won the Confederations Cup final against Spain, with Julio Cesar and David Luiz absent.
The visitors started strongly, piling on the pressure – and it looked like they would be rewarded in the 11th minute when Fred shook off his man to feed Hulk, but quick reactions from Diego Benaglio saw the 27-year-old’s shot kept out.The home side continued to struggle to retain possession, and the Wolfsburg goalkeeper was called into action again a few minutes later. Hulk was once more involved as he charged at goal, but his shot fell well for Benaglio, who saved with his feet.
Switzerland did pose some threat on the break, but their finishing was wayward.
Tempers began to fray shortly before half-time, when Stephan Lichtsteiner was chopped down by Neymar, with the Barcelona striker earning a yellow card as referee Deniz Aytekin struggled to separate the players.
Brazil should have opened the scoring when Paulinho’s header came back off the crossbar, before Shaqiri tested Brazil goalkeeper Jefferson with a long-range effort at the other end.
At the break, the hosts withdrew Valentin Stocker for Tranquillo Barnetta, while 21-year-old Fabian Schaer made his international bow at the expense of Senderos.The changes reaped rewards within a few minutes, as Switzerland’s pressure ended with a cross from Shaqiri and Alves inadvertently headed past his own keeper.
Brazil's embarrassment was almost increased soon after when Jefferson failed to control a ball leading to a melee in the box, with Haris Seferovic just beaten to it by the Brazilian.Scolari opted to make three changes to force the game, with the most notable seeing 31-year-old Paris Saint-Germain defender Maxwell make his international debut while Fred – who has scored five in five for Brazil – left the field to be replaced by Jo.
That did not seem to help the visitors, who still found themselves battling against the impressive Swiss attack – which was typified through Shaqiri, who once again fired over the crossbar.Brazil attempted to fight back in the latter stages, going close through Jo, but debutant defender Michael Lang intercepted.
The loss marked the first for Brazil since February, while Switzerland gained a confidence-boosting win ahead of the resumption of their World Cup qualifying campaign.
South Africa 0-2 Nigeria: Supersub Uche Nwofor doubles up
Two second-half goals from Uche Nwofor gave Nigeria a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the Nelson Mandela Challenge.
South Africa took time to settle and struggled with possession early in the game. However, Nigeria failed to take advantage of that, because they kept possession in their own half and were often given no space in front of the Bafana goal.
Nnamdi Oduamadi came close and nearly gave Nigeria the opener in the 11th minute after the Bafana defence allowed the Super Eagles to play the ball behind them, but Itumeleng Khune was quick to react.
Tokelo Rantie and Bernard Parker combined well in the 16th minute, but Rantie was tightly marked as Bafana could only settle for a corner.
Bafana launched another attack a few minutes later, but Thuso Phala’s cross could not find Reneilwe Letsholonyane as Nigeria recovered in time to clear their lines.
The home side came close in the 24th minute, but Parker’s low from inside the Nigeria box was too strong for Siphiwe Tshabalala.
Sunday Mba should have done better in the 25th minute after some exciting combination with Ogenyi Onazi only for Khune to save his weak effort.
John Ogu nearly put Nigeria in front with a cheeky chip a minute later, but hit the cross bar and went over with Khune well beaten.
Super Eagles keeper Austine Ejide made a comfortable save from Rantie shortly afterwards.
Khune had to make a difficult save to deny Victor Obinna in the 33rd minute, as Nigeria looked to break the deadlock before half time.
Khune again denied the Super Eagles the opening goal with a fine save in the 42nd minute, after well taken shot by Ogu from outside the Bafana penalty area.
Rantie had a chance to put Bafana in the lead a few seconds later, but his shot hit the wrong side of the net.
Letsholonyane was then wasteful from Parker’s low cross with the dreadlocked midfielder taking too many touches inside the Nigeria box.
Bafana had a brighter second half start and won a free-kick on the left hand side of the Nigerian box in the 46th minute after a foul on Parker, and the Chiefs hitman dusted himself up to whip in a beautiful cross that was punched away by Ejide.
Nigeria then took the lead through substitute Nwofor with a cheeky finish in the 48th minute after the Bafana defence was caught napping.
South Africa tried hard to get the equalizer, but they often lacked composure as they blasted most of their chances over the bar.
Nwofor broke South Africa’s hearts with an easy tap-in in the 67th minute after a skilful display from the Nigerians split the Bafana defence to eventually beat the helpless Khune.
Substitute Lerato Chabangu saw his long-range shot sail over the bar as he looked to catch Ejide off-guard for Bafana’s first goal against Nigeria in nine years.
The home side won a free-kick outside the Nigeria box in the 77th minute, but Parker’s effort was too strong as it sailed over the bar.
Bafana pressed forward in the dying minutes of the game and won a free-kick on the edge of the Nigerian box, but Tshabalala’s attempt was deflected for a corner.
Ahmed Musa came close in the 90th minute with a brilliantly played cross which nearly beat Khune, but it flashed across the face of goal.
Two second-half goals from Uche Nwofor gave Nigeria a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the Nelson Mandela Challenge.
South Africa took time to settle and struggled with possession early in the game. However, Nigeria failed to take advantage of that, because they kept possession in their own half and were often given no space in front of the Bafana goal.
Nnamdi Oduamadi came close and nearly gave Nigeria the opener in the 11th minute after the Bafana defence allowed the Super Eagles to play the ball behind them, but Itumeleng Khune was quick to react.
Tokelo Rantie and Bernard Parker combined well in the 16th minute, but Rantie was tightly marked as Bafana could only settle for a corner.
Bafana launched another attack a few minutes later, but Thuso Phala’s cross could not find Reneilwe Letsholonyane as Nigeria recovered in time to clear their lines.
The home side came close in the 24th minute, but Parker’s low from inside the Nigeria box was too strong for Siphiwe Tshabalala.
Sunday Mba should have done better in the 25th minute after some exciting combination with Ogenyi Onazi only for Khune to save his weak effort.
John Ogu nearly put Nigeria in front with a cheeky chip a minute later, but hit the cross bar and went over with Khune well beaten.
Super Eagles keeper Austine Ejide made a comfortable save from Rantie shortly afterwards.
Khune had to make a difficult save to deny Victor Obinna in the 33rd minute, as Nigeria looked to break the deadlock before half time.
Khune again denied the Super Eagles the opening goal with a fine save in the 42nd minute, after well taken shot by Ogu from outside the Bafana penalty area.
Rantie had a chance to put Bafana in the lead a few seconds later, but his shot hit the wrong side of the net.
Letsholonyane was then wasteful from Parker’s low cross with the dreadlocked midfielder taking too many touches inside the Nigeria box.
Bafana had a brighter second half start and won a free-kick on the left hand side of the Nigerian box in the 46th minute after a foul on Parker, and the Chiefs hitman dusted himself up to whip in a beautiful cross that was punched away by Ejide.
Nigeria then took the lead through substitute Nwofor with a cheeky finish in the 48th minute after the Bafana defence was caught napping.
South Africa tried hard to get the equalizer, but they often lacked composure as they blasted most of their chances over the bar.
Nwofor broke South Africa’s hearts with an easy tap-in in the 67th minute after a skilful display from the Nigerians split the Bafana defence to eventually beat the helpless Khune.
Substitute Lerato Chabangu saw his long-range shot sail over the bar as he looked to catch Ejide off-guard for Bafana’s first goal against Nigeria in nine years.
The home side won a free-kick outside the Nigeria box in the 77th minute, but Parker’s effort was too strong as it sailed over the bar.
Bafana pressed forward in the dying minutes of the game and won a free-kick on the edge of the Nigerian box, but Tshabalala’s attempt was deflected for a corner.
Ahmed Musa came close in the 90th minute with a brilliantly played cross which nearly beat Khune, but it flashed across the face of goal.
Portugal 1-1 Netherlands: Ronaldo rescues sloppy Seleccao
Cristiano Ronaldo's late goal earned Portugal a 1-1 draw with Netherlands at the Estadio Algarve on Wednesday night, thus denying the Dutch a first win in the fixture since 1991.
The Real Madrid ace was on hand to finish from close range three minutes from time, cancelling out Kevin Strootman's first-half strike.It had looked set to be a frustrating night for the hosts, but their reliable talisman grabbed a deserved leveller just when it seemed all hope was lost.
The most notable absentee from Louis Van Gaal's squad was Galatasaray playmaker Wesley Sneijder, who was recently stripped of the captaincy.Bruno Martins was handed a start against the country of his birth, while there were also places for Ajen Robben, Robin van Persie and Rafael van der Vaart.
Portugal named a relatively strong side, with Ronaldo leading the line alongside Danny and Helder Postiga in a three-pronged attack, and it was the hosts who carved out the first opportunity of the game inside the opening three minutes.
Ronaldo rose to meet Ruben Amorim's teasing cross, but could only direct a tame header straight at Michel Vorm.
Despite a lively start from the home side, it was the Netherlands that drew first blood after 17 minutes. Jeremain Lens found his former PSV Eindhoven team-mate Strootman on the edge of the area and he sent a crashing drive past a despairing Beto at the near post.Portugal continued to carry a threat and should have levelled just before the half-hour mark. Danny picked out Ruben Micael at the far post, only for the midfielder to direct his effort wide from 10 yards.
However, the hosts continued to press for an equaliser after the break and nearly made a breakthrough when Fabio Coentrao beat both Robben and Lens to the ball on the left-hand side before forcing Vorm to turn a stinging effort wide of the upright.
Netherlands offered little to trouble the Portuguese defence, with the usually talismanic Van Persie putting in a uncharacteristically quiet performance, which ended with him being substituted after just 58 minutes.In contrast, Portuguese maestro Ronaldo put in a typically eye-catching display, and the former Manchester United forward was very nearly rewarded for his efforts after 63 minutes, forcing another good save from Vorm with a long-range strike.
Miguel Veloso hit the crossbar nine minutes later after some sloppy Dutch defending, leaving Paulo Bento wondering if it was not going be his side's night.
However, Ronaldo came to the rescue of the hosts with in the 87th minute, getting himself on the end of a deflected Veloso corner to give Portugal a deserved share of the spoils.
Cristiano Ronaldo's late goal earned Portugal a 1-1 draw with Netherlands at the Estadio Algarve on Wednesday night, thus denying the Dutch a first win in the fixture since 1991.
The Real Madrid ace was on hand to finish from close range three minutes from time, cancelling out Kevin Strootman's first-half strike.It had looked set to be a frustrating night for the hosts, but their reliable talisman grabbed a deserved leveller just when it seemed all hope was lost.
The most notable absentee from Louis Van Gaal's squad was Galatasaray playmaker Wesley Sneijder, who was recently stripped of the captaincy.Bruno Martins was handed a start against the country of his birth, while there were also places for Ajen Robben, Robin van Persie and Rafael van der Vaart.
Portugal named a relatively strong side, with Ronaldo leading the line alongside Danny and Helder Postiga in a three-pronged attack, and it was the hosts who carved out the first opportunity of the game inside the opening three minutes.
Ronaldo rose to meet Ruben Amorim's teasing cross, but could only direct a tame header straight at Michel Vorm.
Despite a lively start from the home side, it was the Netherlands that drew first blood after 17 minutes. Jeremain Lens found his former PSV Eindhoven team-mate Strootman on the edge of the area and he sent a crashing drive past a despairing Beto at the near post.Portugal continued to carry a threat and should have levelled just before the half-hour mark. Danny picked out Ruben Micael at the far post, only for the midfielder to direct his effort wide from 10 yards.
However, the hosts continued to press for an equaliser after the break and nearly made a breakthrough when Fabio Coentrao beat both Robben and Lens to the ball on the left-hand side before forcing Vorm to turn a stinging effort wide of the upright.
Netherlands offered little to trouble the Portuguese defence, with the usually talismanic Van Persie putting in a uncharacteristically quiet performance, which ended with him being substituted after just 58 minutes.In contrast, Portuguese maestro Ronaldo put in a typically eye-catching display, and the former Manchester United forward was very nearly rewarded for his efforts after 63 minutes, forcing another good save from Vorm with a long-range strike.
Miguel Veloso hit the crossbar nine minutes later after some sloppy Dutch defending, leaving Paulo Bento wondering if it was not going be his side's night.
However, Ronaldo came to the rescue of the hosts with in the 87th minute, getting himself on the end of a deflected Veloso corner to give Portugal a deserved share of the spoils.
Ecuador 0-2 Spain: Negredo nets in facile win for la Roja
Goals in either half for Alvaro Negredo and Santi Cazorla saw Spain post a relatively comfortable 2-0 friendly win over Ecuador on Wednesday.
The world and European champions dealt with the altitude in Guayaquil well as Vicente del Bosque's side produced a professional win despite the absence of several of their stars.Negredo's flick in the 25th minute set Spain on their way before Cazorla, who made the most of a rare start, sealed the triumph in the second half.
None of Xavi, Juan Mata, Fernando Torres or Gerard Pique were involved in South America for Spain, but Del Bosque did give new Manchester City signing Negredo a chance to lead the line up front.Ecuador picked a strong side that relied heavily on the attacking instincts of Felipe Caicedo and Joao Rojas, but they were quickly on the back foot.
Spain were inches away from scoring after just three minutes as they carved open the Ecuador defence with a trademark passing move before Silva saw his effort hit the bar.
Negredo volleyed over shortly after, before players and fans stopped during the 11th minute to pay their respects to Christian Benitez, who wore the same number for Ecuador.
The striker died last month of heart failure, aged just 27, and his memory was warmly applauded while the capacity crowd sung his nickname – 'Chucho' – loudly.Andres Iniesta hit the post in the 22nd minute with a 20-yard effort from distance and it was a warning sign Ecuador did not heed.
Just three minutes later – after Caicedo wasted a free header - Negredo put them into the lead, producing an outrageous backheel flick after sublime build-up work from Cazorla.At the other end, Gabriel Achilier nodded a free-kick wide while Segundo Castillo forced a good save from Iker Casillas from 20 yards, but Spain were well worth their half-time lead.
Del Bosque removed Negredo, Iniesta and Silva at the break, with Thiago Alcantara, Jesus Navas and Fernando Llorente introduced in their place.Ecuador slowly worked themselves into the match and they should have equalised in the 61st minute, only for Enner Valencia to head onto the crossbar.
But Spain delivered the sucker punch as Cazorla benefited from Cristian Tello's neat flick before surging into the penalty area and driving a right-footed finish past Maximo Banguera.Ecuador had a few half-chances to pull a goal back but lacked quality in the final third, while Llorente nodded wide from a Navas cross when he should have done better.Spain deserved victory, though, with a disciplined and organised performance sure to please manager Del Bosque.
For Ecuador, the result was far from ideal, with crucial 2014 World Cup qualifiers ahead against Colombia and Bolivia next month.
Japan 2-4 Uruguay: Forlan & Suarez star in Celeste victory
Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez inspired Uruguay to their first win in three matches as they beat Japan 4-2 in Rifu on Wednesday.
Forlan scored twice in an many minutes in the first half to put his side in control at the break, with Suarez at the heart of both before adding a third himself early in the second period.Japan fought bravely and were able to cut the deficit through Shinji Kagawa but Alvaro Gonzalez restored the visitors' three-goal cushion, before Keisuke Honda fired an inch-perfect free kick into the top corner to make it 4-2.
The deadlock was broken just before the half-hour mark when Liverpool forward Suarez broke Japan's offside trap down the left-hand side.He raced away from the home defenders into the penalty area and drew the goalkeeper out before cutting back to his strike partner Forlan, who had the simple task of putting the ball into the open goal.
And when Suarez was fouled 25 yards from goal two minutes later, Forlan curled a brilliant free kick over the wall and into the top corner, wrong footing the keeper in the process.Uruguay led 3-0 seven minutes after the interval as Suarez finally got his name on the scoresheet.
A cross from the right hit a Japan defender, and as the ball dropped free inside the penalty area, the 26-year-old pounced to fire it into the back of the net.The hosts pulled a goal back almost immediately after some less-than-impressive defending from Uruguay.
A chipped pass from Honda evaded two defenders and the goalkeeper, leaving Manchester United playmaker Kagawa with a simple tap in from five yards.
Gonzalez then met a looping cross from Cristian Rodriguez to head into an unguarded net, before Honda's fantastic strike in the 71st minute completed the scoring.
Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez inspired Uruguay to their first win in three matches as they beat Japan 4-2 in Rifu on Wednesday.
Forlan scored twice in an many minutes in the first half to put his side in control at the break, with Suarez at the heart of both before adding a third himself early in the second period.Japan fought bravely and were able to cut the deficit through Shinji Kagawa but Alvaro Gonzalez restored the visitors' three-goal cushion, before Keisuke Honda fired an inch-perfect free kick into the top corner to make it 4-2.
The deadlock was broken just before the half-hour mark when Liverpool forward Suarez broke Japan's offside trap down the left-hand side.He raced away from the home defenders into the penalty area and drew the goalkeeper out before cutting back to his strike partner Forlan, who had the simple task of putting the ball into the open goal.
And when Suarez was fouled 25 yards from goal two minutes later, Forlan curled a brilliant free kick over the wall and into the top corner, wrong footing the keeper in the process.Uruguay led 3-0 seven minutes after the interval as Suarez finally got his name on the scoresheet.
A cross from the right hit a Japan defender, and as the ball dropped free inside the penalty area, the 26-year-old pounced to fire it into the back of the net.The hosts pulled a goal back almost immediately after some less-than-impressive defending from Uruguay.
A chipped pass from Honda evaded two defenders and the goalkeeper, leaving Manchester United playmaker Kagawa with a simple tap in from five yards.
Gonzalez then met a looping cross from Cristian Rodriguez to head into an unguarded net, before Honda's fantastic strike in the 71st minute completed the scoring.
Mourinho buoyed by Eto'o's desire to join Chelsea
Jose Mourinho is buoyed after learning that Anzhi Makhachkala striker Samuel Eto'o is keen to join Chelsea.
Reports have suggested the big-spending Russian side are looking to cut costs, with the 32-year-old forward among the players who could be offloaded this summer.
Eto'o claimed he would relish the chance to work with Mourinho once again after winning the Champions League and Serie A under the Portuguese at Inter, while the Chelsea manager refused to rule out a move for the Cameroon international.
"I am always happy that somebody that worked with me previously is happy to be back and work with me again," Mourinho told BT Sport.
"That is a good feeling that I have, when I read something that Samuel is keen.
"It is fantastic for us, but we are going to see what happens."
Jose Mourinho is buoyed after learning that Anzhi Makhachkala striker Samuel Eto'o is keen to join Chelsea.
Reports have suggested the big-spending Russian side are looking to cut costs, with the 32-year-old forward among the players who could be offloaded this summer.
Eto'o claimed he would relish the chance to work with Mourinho once again after winning the Champions League and Serie A under the Portuguese at Inter, while the Chelsea manager refused to rule out a move for the Cameroon international.
"I am always happy that somebody that worked with me previously is happy to be back and work with me again," Mourinho told BT Sport.
"That is a good feeling that I have, when I read something that Samuel is keen.
"It is fantastic for us, but we are going to see what happens."
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