Nimni gives Israel away win

Avi Nimni’s late strike saw Israel claim a 2-1 win in Cyprus and move level on points with Ireland and France at the top of Group Four.

Adoram Keisi had fired the away side into a 17th-minute lead but they were pegged back by Giannakis Okkas’ equaliser on the stroke of half-time.

Avraham Grant’s side appeared to be heading for a draw in Nicosia, before Nimni netted the vital winning goal in the 86th minute.

The three points moves Israel above Switzerland in the standings and they are now level on eight points with both Ireland and 1998 World Cup winners France.

Ironically, they now face France and Ireland in their next two fixtures - games which are likely to make or break their qualification bid.

Cyprus, on the other hand, remain joint-bottom with the Faroe Islands and have taken just one point from their opening five games.