Kwoeme keeps Norway in hunt for second spot

Ohi Kwoeme struck six minutes from time as Norway edged Azerbaijan 1-0 in UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 8.

Although the away side were pure and precise with their passing, Azerbaijan posed a greater threat in the opening half. The pendulum swung in favour of Norway after the interval, however, and they eventually shattered their opponents' resistance courtesy of Lillestrøm SK midfielder Kwoeme. The result sent Leif Gunnar Smerud's side level on points with second-placed Israel, although they have played two games more.

The best of Azerbaijan's chances fell to striker Agabala Ramazanov, who struck a post as he bore down on goal following a fine solo run. Bernhard Lippert's charges then paid a high price for their profligacy on 84 minutes as Daniel Berntsen raced down the right and provided the perfect cross for Kwoeme to tap in.

"We played well and created a few chances," said Kwoeme. "We had a lot of the ball but couldn't score. I was very happy with the performance. They tired as the match went on and I was delighted to score. They're a very strong side."