Milan Baros scored a late equaliser as the Czech Republic twice came from behind to draw in Slovakia.
Baros nets late equaliser for Czech Republic in Slovakia
Milan Baros scored a late equaliser as the Czech Republic twice came from behind to earn a point against Group Three table-toppers Slovakia.
After a goalless first period, Stanislav Sestak gave the hosts the lead in the 60th minute but Daniel Pudil quickly levelled.
Marek Hamsik then restored the home team's advantage with a 73rd minute penalty but his night ended in misery when he was sent off two minutes later.
But former Liverpool striker Baros came off the bench to pounce for an 84th minute equaliser to earn the Czechs a share of the spoils.
The draw means the Czechs remain second from bottom of the table with nine points from their opening seven matches, but their remaining three games are all home ties against San Marino, Poland and Northern Ireland.
Speaking of his side's faint qualification hopes, Czech coach Ivan Hasek told Slovak television: "We have to fight to have any chance of advancing."
Slovakia head the table with 16 points and next play Northern Ireland, who currently occupy the runners-up spot, on Wednesday.
But Hamsik will be missing for the tough trip to Windsor Park following his dismissal.
