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WC Qualifiers

Germany held off Russia to claim a 2-1 win and extend their lead to four points over their main rivals in Group Four.

Strikes from Lukas Podolski and Michael Ballack gave Germany a commanding lead before Andrei Arshavin halved the deficit early in the second period.

Guus Hiddink's side pushed for an equaliser in Dortmund with Alan Dzagoev hitting the post from five yards out three minutes from time.

But Germany - including goalkeeper Rene Adler making his debut in place of the injured Robert Enke - stood firm.

Germany now have seven points from their opening three qualifiers, one more than second-placed Wales, but Russia, currently fourth, have a game in hand on them both.

Wales rose to second in the table with a 2-0 victory over Group Four minnows Liechtenstein despite Craig Bellamy missing a penalty.

The West Ham striker was returning for his country following almost a year out of the side, saw his spot-kick blocked by Liechtenstein goalkeeper Peter Jehle.

But Wales took all three points thanks to David Edwards' first goal for his country and a deflected header from substitute Ched Evans.

The defeat leaves Liechtenstein stranded at the foot of the table without a win and yet to score a goal in the campaign.

Mikael Forssell secured Finland's first win in the group with the only goal as the hosts recorded a narrow 1-0 win over Azerbaijan.

The 27-year-old, who plays for Hannover in the German Bundesliga, converted from the penalty spot in the 62nd minute after Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia was hauled down in the area.

The victory lifts Finland off the foot of the table and keeps their qualification hopes alive, while it was Azerbaijan's second defeat of the campaign and leaves them with a solitary point after three matches.