Capdevila condemns France to defeat

Spain 1-0 France

Revenge mission
The last meeting between these sides had been a second-round match at the 2006 FIFA World Cup which France won 3-1, but the crowd at La Rosaleda Stadium saw the hosts avenge that defeat thanks to Capdevila.

Torres injured
In the game's first goalmouth action, Spain midfielder Xavi Hernández let fly a powerful 13th-minute shot which went just wide of Grégory Coupet's goal. France striker Nicolas Anelka responded with an even closer effort eleven minutes later which goalkeeper Iker Casillas had to tip away. By then, home coach Luis Aragonés had been forced into a first change after striker Fernando Torres pulled a muscle in his right thigh, making way for Daniel Güiza.

Feisty contest
The second half was a competitive affair with Patrick Vieira, Ángel López and Güiza given yellow cards. France's best moment came on 72 minutes when Andrés Iniesta was forced to clear off the line following a Karim Benzema corner. The Spanish reply arrived in the 79th minute as Iniesta tried to lob Coupet who stretched to save. However, a minute later Spain were in front. Villarreal CF defender Capdevila latched on to the rebound following Iniesta's powerful strike to score his second international goal.

Late chances
The goal spurred France into action and they had two excellent opportunities to equalise. A Benzema header hit the woodwork and Casillas saved Thierry Henry's follow-up, before the latter striker again failed to beat the Spain No1 in a one-on-one situation in stoppage time.