England comeback twice to beat Scotland

PARIS: England edged out old enemies Scotland in a five-goal thriller at Wembley on Wednesday in what proved to be the pick of a busy night of international action.

The midweek friendly date sanctioned by FIFA is not the most popular among clubs, falling as it does just as Europe's leading domestic leagues are getting underway.

But there was plenty of drama with England beating Scotland 3-2 while Germany shared six goals with Paraguay; Italy lost to Argentina in Rome, Confederations Cup winners Brazil went down to defeat in Switzerland and reigning world and European champions Spain triumphed in Ecuador.

In a revival of the oldest international fixture in world football, Scotland were in front twice at Wembley, goals from James Morrison and Kenny Miller sending 20,000 visiting fans wild with delight.

But England hit back each time, first through Theo Walcott and then Danny Welbeck, before 31-year-old Southampton striker Rickie Lambert headed in what proved to be the winner 20 minutes from time on his debut. "Rickie Lambert has been so enthusiastic -- he's been like a young boy with a new toy," said England manager Roy Hodgson. "He almost got three and I'm delighted with him."

In other games, Portugal and the Netherlands drew 1-1 on the Algarve, with a late Cristiano Ronaldo goal earning the home side a draw after Kevin Strootman had put the Dutch in front.

Paris Saint-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic netted a hat-trick as Sweden beat neighbours Norway 4-2 in Solna, but France saw their woes in front of goal continue as they drew 0-0 in Belgium. (AFP)