Diniyar Bilyaletdinov: double

Substitute Nejc Pecnik's late goal gave Slovenia a lifeline in their World Cup qualifying play-off against Russia.

Diniyar Bilyaletdinov's brace seemed to have put the home side in commanding but Pecnik – only introduced in the 83rd minute – pounced two minutes from time for a potentially crucial away goal.

In the other European play-off, Greece and Ukraine drew 0-0 in Athens. The away side had the better chances in the stalemate and will go into the second leg as slight favourites.

New Zealand, Nigeria and Cameroon all claimed their places at the World Cup. In Wellington, New Zealand ended a wait of both 28 years – since their last appearance – and a month since the 0-0 first leg against Bahrain to win 1-0. Plymouth striker Rory Fallon headed the only goal on half-time and Mark Paston saved a penalty to take the All Whites through to South Africa.

In Africa, Nigeria had to come from behind against Kenya to secure their first appearance since 2002. The Super Eagles entered the final few minutes at 2-2. Obafemi Martins and Aiyegbeni Yakbu cancelled out Dennis Olech's opener for Kenya before Allan Wetende equalised with a header in the 79th. Martins popped up again in the 83rd minute, however, firing home to secure their place.

Egypt beat Algeria 2-0 in Cairo but the sides will now meet again on Wednesday in Sudan in a play-off for a World Cup place after the two teams finished tied at the top of their group on points, goal differnce and results.

Meanwhile, Wales ran riot against Scotland winning 3-0 thanks to goals from Aaron Ramsey, David Edwards and Simon Church.

World Cup finalists Switzerland lost 1-0 to Norway as John Carew converted a penalty, Danko Lazovic scored the only goal as Serbia beat Northern Ireland 1-0.