Golan stuns Russia

Dror Kashtan's Israel handed England a lifeline for Euro 2008 qualification as they beat Russia in Tel Aviv, with a late strike from Omer Golan proving the difference in a frenetic encounter.

After coming from behind in Moscow to defeat the Three Lions a month ago, Russia knew that six points from their remaining two games would mean qualification for Austria and Switzerland.

Israel were without Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun, but struck an early blow as Elyaniv Barda put them ahead after only ten minutes. Latching on to Barak Itzhaki through pass, the Racing Genk forward showed terrific composure to lift the ball over the onrushing Gabulov.

With the home side clearly on top and looking like adding to their advantage, Guus Hiddink made a bold move after just half an hour by taking Igor Semshov off and replacing him with Dimitri Torbinskiy.

Israel held their lead until the interval, but Russia began the second-half with great purpose and were soon creating chances for fun. Another early switch from Hiddink saw the match-winner from Moscow, Roman Pavlyuchenko, taken off in favour of Dmitri Sychev.

The two changes swung the pendulum in favour of the visitors, and soon they were on level terms. As Andrei Arshavin became a more influential figure on the game, he played Diniyar Bilyaletdinov in on goal and the left-footed strike evaded both Dudu Awat and Ben Haim to make it 1-1.

It seemed only a matter of time before Russia would take the lead as they turned the screw on the home side, but as the clock ticked away Israel stunned their opponents with a late winner from Omar Golan.

Stealing the ball from the last defender, Golan showed his cool to stay onside before slipping the ball into the bottom corner to the delight of a packed Ramat Gan stadium.