Dhaka, Oct. 13 -- The Faroe Islands boosted their World Cup qualifying hopes with a stunning 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic on Sunday, keeping alive their dream of reaching the tournament for the first time.

Ranked 136th in the world, the tiny North Atlantic nation with fewer than 55,000 people now sits third in Group L after winning four of its last five qualifiers. The victory narrowed the gap to just one point behind second-placed Czech Republic in the race for a playoff spot behind group leader Croatia.

Substitute Martin Agnarsson became the hero for the hosts, scoring the decisive goal in the 81st minute at Torsvollur Stadium in Torshavn. Earlier, Hanus Sorensen gave the Faroe Islands a 67th-minute lead before Adam Karabec equ...