Last-Gasp Slovakia Stun Northern Ireland in Thrilling World Cup Qualifier

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In a dramatic turn of events, Slovakia secured a 1-0 victory over Northern Ireland in a World Cup qualifier on Friday, thanks to Tomas Bobcek's stoppage-time goal. The Slovaks' win has set up a thrilling Group A finale on Monday, where they will face leaders Germany with an automatic World Cup spot on the line. The result also secured at least a playoff spot for both Slovakia and Northern Ireland. The Slovaks are now level on 12 points with Germany, but trail on goal difference. Northern Ireland, meanwhile, are third on six points, but are guaranteed a playoff spot due to their Nations League finish, courtesy of Croatia's 3-1 victory over the Faroe Islands on Friday. The match was marked by two VAR disallowed goals, with Slovakia's Lukas Haraslin and David Strelec seeing their efforts chalked off in the second half. However, Bobcek's decisive goal in the 91st minute sealed the win for the home side, sending the Slovak fans into raptures. The Northern Ireland team, who had Daniel Ballard sent off in the 99th minute, will host last-placed Luxembourg on Monday in their final group stage match. Meanwhile, Slovakia's victory has set the stage for a thrilling showdown against Germany, with the winner securing an automatic World Cup berth.