International Friendly Roundup : Italy held by Spain
Last night saw the first batch of a number of international friendly due to take place over the coming days. Here’s a full roundup of last nights games:
In a repeat of the Euro 2012 final Italy hosted Spain last night in Udine. The home side took the lead through Napoli forward Lorenzo Insigne with 67 minutes played but two minutes later 35 year old Aritz Aduriz making just his second cap for Spain leveled the sides. The Athletic Bilbao is now Spain’s third oldest scorer as he continues to improve with age – he is the top scorer in the Europa League this season.
Scotland won away from home against the Czech Republic thanks to an early goal from Watford midfielder Ikechi Anya. The hosts went close on a number of occasions with a free-kick from Borek Docka hitting the post. Scotland’s keeper Allan McGregor made a string of fine saves which allowed Gordon Strachen’s to hold onto the win as they look towards qualifying for the 2018 World Cup.
Wales broke Northern Irish hearts last night as a late penalty from Simon Church saw the match end 1-1. Northern Ireland had taken the lead through center-back Craig Cathcart after he drilled a shot on goal with 60 minutes played.
Ukraine beat Cyprus 1-0 last night in Odessa last night which saw Andriy Shevchenko make his first appearance as Ukrainian assistant coach.
Malta where held to a goalless draw against Moldova at the National stadium while Estonia and Norway also failed to produce a goal in their tie.
Euro 2004 champions Greece were victorious in Athens last night as they defeated Montenegro 2-1. Turkey beat Sweden 2-1 last night thanks to a brace from Besiktas striker Cenek Tosun. Two early goals from Nicolai Jorgesen in the second half saw Denmark beat Iceland 2-1 in Copenhagen.
Final scorelines:
- Malta 0-0 Moldova
- Estonia 0-0 Norway
- Greece 2-1 Montenegro
- Turkey 2-1 Sweden
- Denmark 2-1 Iceland
- Ukraine 1-0 Cyprus
- Czech Republic 0-1 Scotland
- Wales 1-1 Northern Ireland
- Italy 1-1 Spain
There are plenty of friendlies over the coming days and all the results will be available here on Marking The Spot.
