Moise Kean grabbed his first international goals since March 2019 as Italy thrashed Lithuania 5-0 in World Cup qualifying on Wednesday, as Damian Szymanski’s late header forced England to settle for a draw in Poland.
Italy had drawn their previous two qualifiers to slip into a battle with Switzerland for automatic qualification from Group C.
But the European champions produced a dominant display against Lithuania in Reggio Emilia.
Young striker Kean, who rejoined Juventus from Everton, scored twice in the first half.
Edgaras Utkus put through his own net and Giacomo Raspadori also scored as Italy moved four ahead at the break.
Giovanni Di Lorenzo made it five in the second period as Roberto Mancini’s side stretched their lead over Switzerland at the top of the table to six points.
England, who were beaten by Italy on penalties in the Euro 2020 final, lost their 100 percent record in qualifying with a 1-1 draw against Poland in Warsaw.
Spain’s qualification hopes were under threat heading into their game at Kosovo, but a 2-0 win, coupled with Sweden’s surprise 1-2 loss to Greece, gave Luis Enrique’s side a much-needed boost.
Germany made it three wins from three for the former Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick with an impressive 4-0 victory in Iceland.
There had been serious questions marks raised about the form of forwards Timo Werner, Serge Gnabry and Leroy Sane, but all three netted in Reykjavik.
In Group E, Belgium continued their cruise towards qualification as Dennis Praet’s first-half effort saw Roberto Martinez’s side edge out Belarus 1-0.