(Reuters) -Piotr Zielinski struck late to earn Poland a 3-2 win away to Malta on Monday, securing the visitors a spot in next year's World Cup playoffs.

Poland’s win at Ta'Qali's National Stadium lifted them to 17 points in Group G, the second-place finish ensuring them a place in the playoffs in March. The Netherlands claimed direct qualification as they finished top with 20 points after beating Lithuania, while Malta trail in fourth with five points.