Incisive Israel see off Belarus

Israel 2-1 Belarus

Russian test
Israel still have a major say in who will reach next summer's finals in Austria and Switzerland with their home match against Russia on 17 November pivotal in deciding who will progress out of Guus Hiddink's side, England or Croatia, while they also face F.Y.R. Macedonia four days later as they look to finish on a high.

Baruchyan strike
They took the lead against Belarus shortly before half-time when Aviram Baruchyan found the target for the first time in an Israel shirt but the visitors rallied after the restart and were rewarded midway through the half when Maksim Romashchenko restored parity.

Alberman winner
The decisive moment came minutes later, however, when midfielder Gal Alberman scored what proved to be the winner. It was also his first goal for his country. Belarus, who sit sixth in Group G, are next in action on the same dates as Israel when they face Albania and the Netherlands respectively.

Coach focused