2011 England 1-0 Spain: Three Lions Can Look Forward to an Exciting Future

Nobody predicted this scoreline. No one even thought of giving England a chance against Spain, but everyone was left gobsmacked when Spain lost one nil at Wembley.

When Fabio Capello said he would use this game as a tester to introduce new players into the team, it was a huge risk to take. A gamble that many thought would backfire against the reigning champions.

But it was Capello who was left with a big grin at the end of the game, after watching his England team contain the world champions.

The first half was cagey with Spain dominating possessions but no real chance created much to England's effort to compact the midfield. In the second half, England came out with more purpose. It was dominating the defensive side but also made the break.

The lone striker Darren Bent rose highest to head in a free kick goal-wards. Pepe Reina could not get a hand on the ball which deflected back off the post, only for captain Frank Lampard to head the ball in.

It was a well deserved victory for England in which Joe Hart was barely stretched. Only a shot by Cesc Fabregas came straight to him. The former Arsenal skipper should have scored in the dying minutes but dragged his shot inches wide.

David Villa hit the post but that's all the champions could do. All credit to a solid defensive display by the back four. Man of the match Scott Parker was everywhere, always closing the gaps and intercepting the ball. He was brilliant.

The real victory for England was seeing the impressive performances and mentality of the fringe players that came on. Danny Welbeck was a menace. Welbeck made Gerard Pique sweat every time he ran at the Barcelona forward.

The Manchester United player was winning balls in the air and intelligent with his distribution. Jack Rodwell came on with no fear to burst into the Spanish defence. Unlucky not to score at one point. Kyle Walker came on and when on the break, he showed amazing pace to break into the Spain penalty box. But Johnson just couldn't find the full back with a pass.

None of the new players showed any fear or that they were intimidated by a side that boasts of world-class players.

Spain was outdone by a hardworking English side. Perhaps Capello has found the balance now, and it is certain that the Three Lions have a bright future ahead of them.