Beckham makes spectacular return

Ruud van Nistelrooy secured the victory with a brave header, three minutes into the second half to give Real their first points in three games.

8220;Beckham spares the life of his executioner,8221; was Marca8217;s verdict on the midfielder8217;s goal, saying that Capello was in debt to the former England captain after his performance.

8220;A gift from Beckham to Capello,8221; was El Pais8217;s description of the goal, while most papers were agreed that the victory had saved the former Juventus coach from dismissal.

Capello, who said Beckham8217;s professional attitude in training had persuaded him to reverse his decision to exclude him for the rest of the season, was delighted with his performance.