The former England skipper struck a 25-yard trademark free kick in the first half to cancel out Mikel Aranburu’s opener before Dutchman Ruud van Nistelrooy grabbed the winner in the second period.

Capello ruled Beckham out of his plans since the former Manchester United midfielder announced he was moving to LA Galaxy at the end of the season but made a u-turn recently, stating that the 31-year-old’s professionalism forced him to reconsider his stance.

“I’m very happy that Beckham scored,” the Italian tactician told Spanish daily Marca.

“He played a great game and deserves the credit. As I said before, the mark of an intelligent person is one who knows how to rectify his mistakes.”