Fans in Reykjavik went through a rollercoaster of emotions, first celebrating as their heroes went 2-1 up over Slovenia in the 26th minute, aware that success would see them top the table ahead of Switzerland, and then despairing as their countrymen conspired to throw the match away.
Five minutes later, a Valter Birsa penalty revitalised the Slovenians, who went on to twice hit Iceland on the counter-attack in the second half, Bostjan Cesar and Rene Krhin doing the damage.
A similar scenario played out in the section’s other encounter in Tirana, where Albania led Norway with three minutes to go, only to concede a late equaliser to Tom Hogli. Both these results constitute good news for the Swiss, who play on Saturday.
