Zahavi inspires Israel to big win in Latvia

Having taken four points from a possible six in their first two qualifying games in Group G, a Zahavi-inspired Israel extended their unbeaten run with an excellent all-round performance in Riga.

Israel showed their superiority from kick-off and they forged ahead after nine minutes when Zahavi curled a stunning 25-yard free-kick into the top corner.

Zahavi was a threat throughout, stinging the fingers of the Lativa goalkeeper on 32 minutes after a well-worked short corner in a first half in which Israel were on the front foot.

Latvia improved in the second half, forcing Israel keeper Ariel Harush into two fine saves.