• World Cup qualifying

Bale the hero for Wales, Germany hammer Ireland

ESPN staff
October 12, 2012
Gareth Bale was the hero for Wales © PA Photos
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Two late goals from Gareth Bale earned Wales a memorable victory as they came from behind to beat Scotland 2-1 in Cardiff.

James Morrison's first-half strike looked to have secured all three points for the visitors at Cardiff City Stadium, but Bale equalised from the penalty spot ten minutes from time before netting the winner in the dying minutes.

Germany made it three wins out of three in Group C as they recorded a 6-1 win over Republic of Ireland in Dublin. Marco Reus and Toni Kroos netted two goals apiece while Mesut Ozil, with a penalty, and Miroslav Klose were also on the scoresheet. Andy Keogh headed a late consolation for the hosts.

World champions Spain eased to a 4-0 win over Belarus in Minsk with Pedro netting three goals. Pedro provided the assist for Barcelona team-mate Jordi Alba to open the scoring on 12 minutes before completing an impressive hat-trick. The result puts Spain ahead of France at the top of Group I on goal difference.

Russia produced a strong defensive display to secure a 1-0 victory over Portugal in Moscow. Alexander Kerzhakov scored the only goal of the game on six minutes after a defensive mix-up, with Russia then forced to withstand lengthy spells of pressure.

Italy failed to hit top gear but emerged from their clash in Armenia with a 3-1 victory, while Sweden were forced to rely on Zlatan Ibrahimovic to avert embarrassment in a 2-1 Group C victory away to Faroe Islands.

For a full round-up of Friday's World Cup qualifying action, click here.

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