Hume stunner puts Northern Ireland in strong position ahead of Germany test
It was a great night for Northern Ireland and Wales, with both teams' chances of qualifying for next summer's World Cup boosted, despite the latter not even playing.
Northern Ireland beat Slovakia 2-0 in Belfast, with both teams now on six points in Group A, alongside Germany.
Patrik Hrošovský's own goal gave the hosts the lead in the 18th minute and Sunderland defender Trai Hume scored a superb second goal nine minutes from time to secure the points.
Germany travel to Northern Ireland on Monday in another crucial encounter.
“I thought the performances were excellent,” said Northern Ireland coach Michael O'Neill. “From the first minute, the intensity of the game, the quality of the game and not giving the opposition any opportunity to breathe and play.
“I think they now understand the levels they can reach with this group of players.
“Tonight we showed what we can be like at home, we already showed that if you look at the Bulgaria game, but we played a better team tonight.”
Belgian stalemate delights Wales
Wales may have been beaten 3-0 by England in a friendly last night. but they would have liked to watch Belgium's 0-0 draw against North Macedonia.
The stalemate means Wales are third in Group J but will move into first place if they can beat Belgium in Cardiff on Monday.
Switzerland are five points ahead in Group B after a 2-0 victory in Sweden.
The hosts' attack of Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres failed to shine and the Swiss dominated throughout the match. Captain Grant Xhaka gave them the lead from the penalty spot and they doubled their lead in stoppage time when Johan Manzabi's tame effort was deflected past goalkeeper Viktor Johansson.
Sweden are in last position in the group, behind Kosovo and Slovenia who drew 0-0.
Mbappé plays for France
Kylian Mbappe was among the scorers as France beat Azerbaijan 3-0 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 the returning Florian Thauvin also scored for the Blues, who are five points ahead of Ukraine, who came out late to win 5-3 in Iceland.
2025-10-10 21:45:00
