For England’s Real Madrid duo of Michael Owen and David Beckham, who started a match together in the Bernabeu for the first time, it was a night of disappointment.

From the start of the match Spain signaled their intentions to play an expansive game and after a scintillating first half performance, England fell behind and never really looked like getting back on level terms.

The central midfield partnership of Liverpool’s Xabi Alonso and Xavi Hernandez of Barcelona controlled the pace of the game and such was their grip on the midfield at times it seemed like they never got tackled nor lost the ball.

The Barcelona man was the best player on the pitch, conducting the Spanish side just like another hero of the Catalan club, Pep Guardiola, did in the ‘90s.

With Xavi and Xabi giving Spain a perfect platform from which to build, out wide Jose Antonio Reyes gave Gary Neville plenty to think about, and Joaquin will have won some more admirers after a brilliant display on the right.

The young Real Betis forward was virtually untouchable as he applied his consummate skill with intelligence beyond his years. On more than one occasion he ghosted past Ashley Cole, who in fairness will rarely meet a tougher opponent.

There were only small crumbs of comfort for England to take home from Madrid, most notably an outstanding penalty save from Paul Robinson.

Raul, the darling of this stadium, struck a good penalty to the Spurs man’s right but, though it was hit well, the ball came at a nice height for Robinson who duly pulled off a memorable save and one which should cement his place in the side.

The save would have not been the greatest of surprises to the Spanish who must be sick of the sight of English keepers. Not only did David James save one at Villa Park in the sides’ last meeting but back in Euro 96, David Seaman saved from Nadal to ensure an England victory.

However that was the high note on what was otherwise a below-par performance from Sven’s side. They will now have three months to look forward to their next match - at home to Holland in February.