Ten-man Italy cruise past Israel whilst Kosovo create history with their first ever competitive point in Finland

TEN-MAN Italy kick-started their World Cup qualifying campaign with a confident 3-1 victory in Israel.

Former Southampton striker Graziano Pelle opened the scoring after 14 minutes before Antonio Candreva doubled their advantage from the spot just past the half-hour mark.

Tal Ben Haim, pulled one back with a stunning chip before Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini was sent off for a second yellow card with 35 minutes to go.

But Inter Milan striker Ciro Immobile put the result beyond doubt with a late strike.

Elsewhere minnows Kosovo created history by earning their first World Cup qualifying point with an impressive 1-1 draw in Finland.

It was their first competitive match in the nation's history and a goal on the hour by Valon Berisha meant Kosovo secured a famous draw.