Sweden climb to summit

Sweden are top of Group 6 in UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying following a 1-0 victory against Israel.

Tommy Söderberg's side are level on points with Montenegro but sit atop their section just five games into their campaign, one fewer than their nearest rivals. They remain unbeaten, but were made to work hard for three points in Nes-Ziona, Denni Avdic striking the decisive blow 13 minutes into the second half.

Jiloan Hamad created the game's first notable opening, captain Emir Bajrami profiting from his good work only for his shot to be deflected wide. Israel, though, had chances of their own and nearly went in front midway through the opening period when Liroy Zhairi's free-kick from just outside the penalty area was turned behind by Kristoffer Nordfeldt.

Avraham Rikan also went close before the break but Sweden proved the most clinical in the second period, Avdic heading Martin Olsson's cross past Ariel Harush on 58 minutes. The group leaders now have a top-of-the-table meeting with Montenegro to prepare for on Tuesday before facing Israel again on 3 September.