Azerbaijan recover to deny Gutman's Israel

Eli Gutman's first competitive match in charge of Israel ended in a draw as Azerbaijan recovered from a goal down to earn a point in their opening match of 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying Group F.

After a goalless first half Bebras Natcho gave the visitors a 50th-minute lead with a powerful shot from the left. Azerbaijan were much improved after falling behind and were rewarded for their endeavours when Ruslan Abışov beat Dudu Aouate with a left-footed strike from outside the penalty area a quarter of an hour later.

Gutman will hope to register a win on Tuesday when Israel host Russia, who defeated Northern Ireland 2-0 elsewhere in the section; Azerbaijan continue their campaign in Braga against Portugal.