Israel fight back to sink Cyprus as Spain scrape draw

ISRAEL, playing a home game for the first time in almost three years, came from a goal down to defeat Cyprus 2-1 in Ireland’s World Cup qualifying group four.

Michael Konstantinou gave Cyprus the lead against the run of play on 58 minutes when he capitalised on a mix-up in the Israeli defence.

A brilliant solo goal from midfielder Yossi Benayoun, who rounded six players before shooting home from a sharp angle, restored parity eight minutes later.