Serbia loss gives Wales, Ireland fresh hope

VIENNA, Austria (AP):

Serbia failed to clinch a World Cup berth in Vienna and lost instead, giving fresh hope to Wales and Ireland in qualifying yesterday. Serbia only had to beat already-eliminated Austria. It squandered the opening goal, came back to draw 2-2, then conceded a long-range goal in the 89th minute for Austria to win 3-2. The Serbs can still secure top spot in Europe Group D and the automatic qualifying berth that comes with it on Monday, with a home win against Georgia.

Wales was only a point behind in the standings after beating Georgia 1-0 away without Gareth Bale, while Ireland were only a point behind Wales after defeating Moldova 2-0 in Dublin.

Wales and Ireland meet on Monday.