Netherlands beat Finland 2-0 to enjoy good start to World Cup qualifier
PA Media/dpa
London
The Netherlands opened their World Cup qualification campaign with a 2-0 win over Finland in Helsinki.
Ronald Koeman's side - beaten in the Nations League quarter-finals by Spain on penalties - took an early lead through Memphis Depay in the sixth minute.
The Corinthians striker latched on to a stray backpass from Kaan Kairinen to slot in his 48th international goal and close to within two of Robin van Persie's all-time record.
Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries added a second before the break, converting a floated ball to the back post from Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo.
Group G's bottom side Malta picked up their first point after battling to a 0-0 draw against Lithuania at the Ta'Qali National Stadium.
England laboured to a 1-0 win over Andorra in Barcelona to maintain their 100 per cent start to Group K.
Captain Harry Kane make the breakthrough early in the second half, but the expected goals onslaught did not follow leaving new boss
Thomas Tuchel facing more questions despite a third straight win.
Serbia began their qualifying campaign with a 0-0 draw away to Balkans rivals Albania in Tirana.
Albania saw a penalty from Rey Manaj saved by Serbia keeper Djordje Petrovic in stoppage time at the end of the first half.
Bosnia and Herzegovina kept up their perfect record in Group H as Edin Dzeko's second-half goal gave them a 1-0 win over minnows San Marino in Zenica for a third victory.
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