Israel beat Russia 2-1 in a crucial Group E qualifier in Tel Aviv on Saturday to do a massive favour to England, who now need just a point to make it to Euro 2008 finals.

Israel, who had no chance of earning a qualification, led through first half goal from Elyaniv Barda but Russia levelled the score through Diniyar Bilyaletdinov in the second half. Substitute O Golan scored in the first minute of stoppage time to send the home side fans as well as England supporters into a frenzy.

Steve McClaren’s England, who have 23 points from 11 games, play their final qualifier at home against Croatia, who are on 26 points from 10 games. Guus Hiddink’s Russia have 21 points from 11 games and play Andorra in the final qualifier.

The home side took the lead in the 10th minute as Barda scored with a first-time shot off a through pass from Barak Itzhaki, beating the advancing Vladimir Gabulov.

Russia equalised in the 61st minute through Bilyaletdinov. Konstantin Zyrianov combined with Andrei Arshavin, who set up the Lokomotiv Moscow captain for a low shot that was deflected into the net off the leg of goalkeeper Dudu Awat.

Golan, who came on as a substitute for Ben Sahar in the 69th minute, clinched the victory beating Gabulov off a through pass, seconds after Russia’s D Sychev had hit the post.

Group leaders Croatia are playing away in FYR Macedonia tonight, and will play their final qualifying game against the Three Lions at Wembley on Wednesday.