Algeria advances after drawing with Russia.

Despite falling behind in the 6th minute, Islam Slimani scored the winning goal in the second half to secure a 1-1 draw.

Goalkeeper Ankinfeev's fatal mistake cost the Russian national team dearly (Photo: AFP).

With this result, Algeria finished second in Group H and advanced to the second round of the 2014 World Cup along with Belgium. As for Russia, they were close to securing their place, but their weakness in aerial play led to their disappointment. This was Algeria's first appearance in the knockout round of the World Cup. For the "Russian Bears," this was a truly disappointing tournament, especially considering they will be hosting the next World Cup.

Entering the match against Algeria needing a win to keep their hopes of advancing alive, coach Capello proactively fielded an attacking lineup with striker Kerzhakov as the spearhead. This adjustment significantly improved Russia's attacking performance compared to their previous match against Belgium.

In the 6th minute, Russia took the lead when Kokorin comfortably headed the ball into the net past goalkeeper Rais M'Bolhi, after a cross from the left wing by Dmitri Kombarov.

The early goal gave "veteran" Capello more tactical control. The Russian coach instructed his players to slow down the pace of the game to create a stalemate. With a low-lying formation, the Russian defense frequently encountered Algeria's fast-paced attacks. However, Capello's strategy was successful throughout the first 45 minutes.

In the second half, the Algerian players spread out wide and exploited the wing positions of the Russian team, and their plan succeeded. From a cross, goalkeeper Akinfeev rushed out but missed the ball, and Slimani easily headed it into the empty net. The mistake by the Russian goalkeeper almost gifted Algeria a goal. This was the second time in this year's tournament that the CSKA Moscow goalkeeper made a mistake.

After scoring the equalizer, the game shifted as Russia needed a goal to advance. They launched relentless attacks while Algeria opted for a more cautious approach to maintain the draw. However, with a lack of sharpness in attack, the Russian team couldn't find the net again. The final score remained 1-1.

This result means Russia is eliminated, while Algeria advances to the knockout stage as the second-placed team in Group H. Algeria's opponent in the Round of 16 will be Germany.

Starting lineup:

Russia:Akinfeev; Kozlov, Ignashevich, Berezutskiy, Kombarov; Samedov, Glushakov (Denisov 46), Faizulin, Shatov (Dzagoev 67); Kerzakhov (Kanunnikov 81), Kokorin

Algeria: Mbolhi; Belkalem, Halliche, Mandi, Mesbah; Medjani, Bentaleb, Feghouli, Brahimi (Yebda 70), Djabou (Ghilas 76); Slimani (Soudani 89)

Goal:Kokorin 6' - Slimani 59'

According to VOV.VN