Source: CCTV.com

06-07-2007 10:50

England coach Steve McLaren was hoping that his decision to bring David Beckham back in from the cold for their crucial match against group E strugglers Estonia Wednesday would be vindicated. Nothing short of a convincing result would do in that game.

In the same group, Russia were looking to catch up with table leaders Croatia, while over in Group D, Germany took another step towards automatic qualification for Euro 2008 in their match against Slovakia.

England take on Estonia

England broke the deadlock in the 37th minute, when Wayne Bridge's long throw-in was flicked on by Peter Crouch before Joe Cole kicked the ball in.

But all eyes were on the role that David Beckham would play. Nine minutes after the restart, he proved his worth by creating another chance with a pinpoint cross for Crouch to give England a vital two-goal cushion.

Michael Owen added a third on the hour mark, with Beckham once again the provider.

Croatia held to draw by Russia

Hosts Croatia should have taken the lead after 23 minutes in their game against Russia. Ivica Olic headed the ball up in the air before da Silva somehow volleyed the rebound over the crossbar.

That was the best chance for Croatia in the match. They are now joined at the top of the Group E standings on 17 points by Israel, but the Croats still lead on goal difference.

Germany lead group after beating Slovakia

Germany got off to a perfect start, when Miroslav Klose seemingly put an end to an international goal drought stretching back to September.

However, the replay showed that Slovakian defender Jan Durica got the final touch.

Slovakia drew level 10 minutes later in similar circumstances.

Germany regained the lead two minutes before half time as Thomas Hitzlsperger headed home to make it 2-1.

 

Editor:Liu Fang