International Friendlies: Spain edge Argentina and round-up

The ex-Liverpool favourite had given the hosts the lead with a 16th-minute strike.

Barcelona ace Lionel Messi then levelled from the spot but his goal counted for nothing as Alonso converted after Martin Demichelis’ handball.

Reigning world champions Italy were held to a 0-0 draw by Holland.

Substitute Giampaolo Pazzini was denied a late winner as he was judged to have used his arm to bundle the ball in with seven minutes remaining.

At the other end Gianluigi Buffon made a fine save from Rafael van der Vaart to mark his 100th cap with a clean sheet.

Northern Ireland were left kicking themselves after Serbia’s smash-and-grab at Windsor Park.

Nigel Worthington’s men carved out a series of golden chances — but their tame attack couldn’t force a way through.

Instead, Danko Lazovic scored the game’s only goal in the 57th minute.

Elsewhere, finalists Denmark and South Korea shared a goalless draw in Esbjerg, while Luxembourg and Iceland drew 1-1 and Belgium beat Hungary 3-0.

Switzerland lost 1-0 to Norway as John Carew converted a penalty and Eduardo and Mate Bilic each scored twice as Croatia thrashed Liechtenstein 5-0.