Immobile ends Israel's World Cup qualification hopes

Beaten 1-0 at home to Macedonia three days ago, Elisha Levy's troops were in stubborn mood against an Italian team beaten 3-0 by Spain at the weekend.

After a goalless first half, the match came to life in the 55th minute when Ciro Immobile headed a right-wing cross from Candreva into the roof of the net at the Stadio Città del Tricolore.

Italy dominated, having 18 shots, with seven on target, compared to Israel's four.

The defeat ended Israel's slim hopes of finishing second in Group G. There was, however, one highlight for visitors which saw Yossi Benayoun earn his 100th cap for his country, coming off the bench with 21 minutes remaining.