CHISINAU, Moldova - Russia took a big step toward qualifying for Euro 2016 on Friday as a 2-1 win over Moldova strengthened its hold on second place in Group G.

Russia struggled to break down the Moldovan defence but eventually took the lead through veteran defender Sergei Ignashevich, who blasted the ball into the net in the 58th minute after Artyom Dzyuba knocked on a free kick.

Dzyuba doubled Russia's lead in the 78th minute with a tap-in, while Eugeniu Cebotaru rekindled Moldovan hopes with a header in the 85th minute.

Going into the final round of group games on Monday, Russia has a two-point lead over second-placed Sweden, which beat Liechtenstein 2-0.

Austria, which has already qualified as group winner, twice recovered from a goal down to beat Montenegro 3-2.