Thomas Mueller rescued Germany with a late winner as the hosts bounced back to earn a nervous 2-1 win over Romania in Friday's World Cup qualifier to open a six-point lead at the top of their group.

The result extends Germany's lead at the top of Group J ahead of Monday's next qualifier in North Macedonia.

The Germans were denied a penalty by the VAR after slight contact on Timo Werner, just before Rangers' winger Ianis Hagi stunned the hosts.

Davy Klaassen scored the only goal as the Netherlands beat Latvia 1-0 to solidify its position at the top of Group G on Friday.

Midfielder Klaassen scored his eighth international goal in the 19th minute, easing into space and volleying home a corner from the right by Memphis Depay.

A minute later, Klaassen was in action at the other end, blocking a shot by Roberts Uldriķis after a quick break by Latvia.

"We should have been better. But three points are very important for qualification," captain Virgil van Dijk told Dutch broadcaster NOS.

The results left the Netherlands two points ahead of second-placed Norway.

Turkey were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Norway on Friday, in a result that could be costly for the hosts in their bid to qualify for the 2022 World Cup.

Turkey had an impressive start, taking the lead after six minutes with Olympique de Marseille midfielder Cengiz Under finding Kerem Akturkoglu who only had to tap the ball in.

Norway equalized shortly before halftime, following a short corner routine between Martin Odegaard and Jens Petter Hauge. Andreas Hanche-Olsen headed the ball on and Kristian Thorstvedt finished the move.

Croatia and Russia stayed level at the top of Group J on Friday after the Croatians beat Cyprus 3-0 and Russia edged Slovakia 1-0.

Luka Modric set up Ivan Perisic for the opening goal for Croatia in the first-half stoppage time then young defender Josko Gvardiol and Marko Livaja extended the lead with two more goals later on.

It was Croatia's third consecutive win in the World Cup qualifiers and their fourth consecutive and competitive game without conceding a goal.

Aaron Ramsey and Daniel James inspired Wales to a 2-2 draw with the Czech Republic in Prague on Friday, which kept them in sight of the World Cup play-offs.

Both teams have eight points in the fight for the second spot in Group E, trailing leaders Belgium with 16, however Wales have one more game in hand.

Wales travel to Estonia next, while the Czechs face Belarus on a neutral ground in Russia with both games scheduled for October 11.

(With input from agencies)