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Portugal\'s Cristiano Ronaldo, right, wins the ball from Northern Ireland\'s Steven Davis during their World Cup Group F qualifier soccer match at Windsor Park, Belfast, Northern Ireland, Friday, Sept. 6, 2013. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)

Spain, Germany, Italy all win to close in on WCup qualification, Ronaldo rescues Portugal

MANCHESTER, England – Spain, Germany and Italy moved to the brink of qualification for the 2014 World Cup with victories on Friday while Cristiano Ronaldo scored a second-half hat trick to keep Portugal on course for the tournament in Brazil.

The Netherlands’ march to next summer’s finals was slowed by a surprise 2-2 draw at lowly Estonia and England climbed atop its group with a 4-0 thrashing of Moldova.

Spain seized the initiative in its battle with France for top spot in Group I by beating Finland 2-0 away. The French drew 0-0 at Georgia and is three points back in second with two matches left.

Germany and Italy could secure first place in their groups with wins on Tuesday after beating Austria 3-0 and Bulgaria 1-0, respectively. Portugal won 4-2 at Northern Ireland to stay top of Group F.

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