“?Italy enjoyed a spirited game with FYR Macedonia, taking the lead through Belotti before a quick brace from Nestorovski and Hasani looked like ending the Italian’s 10-year unbeaten record in qualifiers. However, a late double by Immobile broke Macedonian hearts to give the Italians a scarcely-earned victory.
Spain had to work hard to break down an equally spirited Albania, with goals from Costa and Nolito earning the points for the former world champions.
Iceland maintained their new-found respect in the international arena by beating Turkey 2-0 with an own-goal from Toprak and a Finnbogason strike setting them on their way.
The Republic of Ireland had to rely on a late James McClean double to earn them the win over Moldova. Long had put the Irish in front before Bugaev equalised for the hosts. However, McClean was to prove the difference with two quick-fire goals late into the game.
A double from Mitrovic and a strike from Tadic was enough to give Serbia a home win against Austria who twice levelled through Sabitzer and Janko.
In the earlier kickoffs, Wales could only manage a paltry 1-1 draw with minnows Georgia, with Bale netting for the Dragons. Okriashvili salvaged a point for the away side.
Israel managed only a 2-1 victory over perennial strugglers Liechtenstein, after two goals from Hemed. Goppel scored a rare goal for the visitors.
A Mario Mandzukic solitary strike was enough to give Croatia a 1-0 away win against Finland, while Ukraine beat Kosovo convincingly 3-0 with an own-goal from Rrahmani and further strikes from Yarmolenko and Rotan completing the rout.
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