Xherdan Shaqiri surprised by Switzerland penalty against N. Ireland

A controversial handball call in the box and the ensuing penalty from Ricardo Rodriguez mean the Swiss hold a huge advantage over Northern Ireland after the first leg. Despite the penalty call, Steve Nicol still contends the deserving team won between Switzerland and Northern Ireland. Switzerland midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri has said he was surprised by the penalty decision that gave his side the advantage in their World Cup playoff against Northern Ireland. The Swiss are well placed to secure a place in Russia after winning Thursday's first leg at Windsor Park 1-0 thanks to the contentious spot-kick, scored by Ricardo Rodriguez. Corry Evans was adjudged by referee Ovidiu Hategan to have handled a Shaqiri effort, but Northern Ireland were incensed and replays showed the ball may...