Ukraine celebrate an “amazing result” in thriller against England as Italy’s woes continue

Ukraine has not played at home since Russia began invading the country in February 2022, and the noise from spectators at the Tarczynski Arena was at times deafening.

“It’s a joy for the players, they gave the people a great celebration and there was a very good atmosphere in the stadium,” said Ukrainian coach Sergiy Rebrov.

Gareth Southgate’s England equalized just before half-time after captain Kane won the ball in midfield and superbly picked out Walker, who controlled the ball neatly and fired home with a calm finish.

“It’s a point away from home and we’re in a good position in the group,” said Walker, with his side still six points clear in Group C.

“It was always going to be tough as they are a proud nation.”

Kyle Walker celebrates after his goal. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

England, who conceded only their second goal in qualifying, are top with 13 points from five games, followed by Ukraine with seven from four.

Also in Group C, North Macedonia struggled to a 1-1 draw against Italy, preventing new Azzurri coach Luciano Spalletti from winning in his first game in charge.

Spalletti took over following the sudden resignation of Roberto Mancini last month, taking over from a side that had already lost to England in their opening game.

Ciro Immobile broke the deadlock two minutes into the second half when he headed in a rebound after Nicolo Barella’s volley hit the crossbar.

North Macedonia – who beat Italy in the 2022 World Cup play-offs – got back on level terms nine minutes from time thanks to a fine free kick from captain Enis Bardhi.

The draw left Italy third in the group.

Belgium won 1-0 in Azerbaijan to go top of Group F.

Yannick Carrasco deflected a long-range shot from Johan Bakayoko past the wrong-footed Azerbaijani goalkeeper in the 38th minute, which was enough for all three points to put the Red Devils ahead of Austria on goal difference.

Newcastle striker Alexander Isak was among the scorers as Sweden won 5-0 in Estonia to move four points off the top two.

Switzerland missed the chance to extend their lead at the top of Group I after Kosovo fought back to a 2-2 draw in Pristina

Romania remains second, two points behind Switzerland, after Israel came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw in Bucharest, while Andorra and Belarus remained goalless.

© AAP