YANNICK CARRASCO DID Ireland a big favour as Belgium came from 2-1 down to beat Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-3 in their penultimate World Cup qualifier.
With the Belgians already guaranteed top spot and qualification, Group H is one which Ireland fans are watching anxiously in the battle for the play-off places.
Bosnia-Herzegovina’s defeat means that if Greece fail to win in Cyprus this evening, Ireland’s fate will be in their own hands when they face Wales on Monday; win in Cardiff, and Martin O’Neill’s side will be guaranteed a play-off place at minimum.
Bosnia-Herzegovina led at the break in Sarajevo, goals from Haris Medunjanin and Edin Visca cancelling out Thomas Meunier’s fourth-minute opener.
Chelsea’s Michy Batshuayi drew Belgium level just before the hour mark and when Jan Vertonghen volleyed home from close range in the 68th minute, Belgium led 3-2.
Dario Dumic was left unmarked to head in Bosnia’s equaliser from Izet Hajrovic’s corner on 82 minutes, but within two minutes, Carrasco showed a cool head to secure the result that Ireland fans were hoping for.
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