Beckham Marks 100th Game

British soccer star David Beckham (33, LA Galaxy) appeared in his 100th game with the national team. His French fans congratulated him on this record with standing ovations. However France defeated England.

In a friendly match with France at Stade de France stadium in Saint Denis, outside Paris, Franck Ribery (Olympique Marseille)`s first-half penalty kick gave France the 1-0 win.

Beckham played as a starting member unlike expectations. He was involved in much of England’s attacking play before being replaced in the 63rd minute.

He debuted in September 1996 and became the fifth player to appear in 100 games for England in 11 years (96 times as a staring member).

When he was being replaced, the audience gave him a roar of applause, and his wife, Victoria Beckham, greeted him. After the match was over, England’s prolific striker Michael Owen (Newcastle United) gave him a shirt signed with all British players’ autographs.

Beckham said that it is disappointing to lose, but sometimes his team fails to score, while playing against a good team like France.

He also said he is glad to show that he is still fit to play, and he wants to play for his country until the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Meanwhile, in other matches, Brazil defeated Sweden 1-0, and Argentina beat Egypt 2-0 in an away game.

kimsk@donga.com