Czech Rep 1-0 Rep of Ireland: Steve Staunton's Euro 2008 dream almost died in Prague when Marek Jankulovski's first-half winner gave the Czech Republic an all-but unassailable six-point lead over the Republic of Ireland in Group D.
Jankulovski capped a first half of almost complete dominance with a 15th-minute strike but Kevin Doyle almost equalised in the 38th minute when he was played clear by Robbie Keane but hit the post.
Ireland were given renewed momentum by the introduction of Reading's Stephen Hunt but when he was sent off on the hour for lunging in on Jan Polak, the visitors' fate was effectively sealed.
Northern misery continues
Iceland 2-1 Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland's hopes of qualification were dealt a crushing blow as they lost 2-1 to Iceland.
Nigel Worthington's side were looking to get back on track following a disappointing defeat to Latvia at the weekend, but made the worst possible start as Armann Bjornsson smashed home a half-volley in the sixth minute following a lightning break by Gunnar Thorvaldsson.
Jonny Evans missed an open goal late in the first half and Chris Brunt rattled the crossbar with a blistering effort shortly after the break, as Northern Ireland's frustration grew.
David Healy netted his 12th goal of the qualification campaign from the penalty spot to draw Northern Ireland level after 72 minutes, but Keith Gillespie scored an own goal one minute from time to complete a miserable week for Group F's surprise package.
Owen brace seals victory
England 3-0 Russia:Michael Owen became only the fourth player to score 40 goals for England as his double strike helped dispose of Russia 3-0 in the crunch Euro 2008 qualifier at Wembley.
Owen converted the impressive Gareth Barry's centre for the opening goal after seven minutes and then he volleyed home a flick on from Emile Heskey just past the half hour mark.
Rio Ferdinand added a third in the 84th minute and England's destiny is now back in their own hands after leapfrogging Russia into second spot in the group.
They require just five points from their remaining three games to qualify, providing one of them comes in the return meeting in Moscow next month.
Bellamy inspires Welsh victory
Slovakia 2-5 Wales:Wales produced a stunning performance led by a brilliant display from skipper Craig Bellamy to win 5-2 against Slovakia in Trnava.
The Welsh repaid Slovakia for the 5-1 mauling they suffered earlier in this group in Cardiff. Bellamy scored two fine goals, had a hand in two others as the hosts were humiliated.
Marek Mintal put Slovakia ahead early on but Freddy Eastwood and Bellamy's double had them 3-1 ahead at the break.
Mintal pulled another one back, but an own goal from Jan Durica and a late effort from Simon Davies completed a wonderful night for the Welsh.
Scotland eye qualification
France 0-1 Scotland: Scotland took a giant step towards qualifying with an impressive 1-0 win over France in the Parc des Princes.
After surviving a first-half of almost total French domination, lone striker James McFadden scored a glorious 30-yard drive to give Scotland all three points.
Alex McLeish's side are top of Group B leading having taken six points from the French and with two of their last three games at Hampden Park.
