Useful information
Prime News delivers timely, accurate news and insights on global events, politics, business, and technology
It was a big night for Northern Ireland and Wales as both teams’ chances of qualifying for next summer’s World Cup increased, despite the latter not even playing.
Northern Ireland beat Slovakia 2-0 in Belfast and both teams now have six points in Group A, along with Germany.
An own goal from Patrik Hrošovský gave the hosts the lead in the 18th minute and Sunderland defender Trai Hume scored an impressive second with nine minutes remaining to secure the points.
Germany beat Luxembourg 4-0 in Sinsheim, with two goals from Joshua Kimmich adding to goals from David Raum and Serge Gnabry.
Germany visits Northern Ireland on Monday in another crucial match.
“I thought the performances were excellent,” Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill said. “From the first minute the intensity of the game, the quality of the game and not letting the opponent have the opportunity to breathe and play.
“I think they now understand the levels they can reach with this group of players.
“Tonight we showed how we can be at home, we have shown it before if you look back at the game against Bulgaria, but tonight we played against a better team.”
Belgium’s stalemate encourages Wales
Wales may have been beaten 3-0 by England in a friendly last night, but they would have liked to see Belgium draw 0-0 against North Macedonia.
The stalemate means Wales are third in Group J but will go top if they can beat Belgium in Cardiff on Monday.
Switzerland has a five-point lead in Group B after a 2-0 win in Sweden.
The local attack of Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres failed to shine and the Swiss dominated throughout. Captain Grant
Sweden is last in the group, behind Kosovo and Slovenia, who tied 0-0.
Mbappé is the star of France
Kylian Mbappe was among the scorers as France beat Azerbaijan 3-0 to take control of Group D.
The Real Madrid striker scored a brilliant goal but limped off late at the Parc des Princes. Adrien Rabiot and returning Florian Thauvin also scored for Les Bleus, who are five points ahead of Ukraine, who came out late to win 5-3 in Iceland.
