Moscow and the tears of victory
(Baonghean.vn) - Journalist Le Tho Binh, who spent many years studying and living in beautiful Russia, used the title of a psychological drama film by director Vladimir Menshov, released in 1979, to express his admiration for the home team's victory. It's truly unbelievable, a case of "Don't believe the tears" regarding this improbable win.
The Russian team defeated Spain 4-3 in a penalty shootout after 120 minutes of intense play that ended in a 1-1 draw. This was a very bitter result for the Spanish, as they were considered far superior to Russia.
Interim coach Hierro instructed his players to maintain control of the game throughout the 120 minutes, with Spain dominating Russia. They held possession for 79% of the 120 minutes and had a total of 25 shots on goal – three times more than Russia.
Death was foretold.
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| A moment of celebration after the Russian national team players' victory. Photo: Internet |
Spain's defeat was actually predicted, at least two days before their opening match of the 2018 World Cup against Portugal.
The Spanish Football Federation was caught off guard when coach Lopetegui accepted the offer to manage Real Madrid, while also extending his contract to lead Spain until after EURO 2020.
Zinedine Zidane's departure, following three consecutive Champions League titles, prompted Real Madrid's Perez to scramble for a replacement.
Big names like Max Allegri to Conte; from Jurgen Klopp to Joachim Low, all rejected Real Madrid. Even Tite - the head coach of the Brazilian national team - shook his head because he was focused on the World Cup instead of accepting Real's offer.
Surprisingly, President Perez managed to convince Lopetegui. Even more remarkably, this was implemented just days before accepting Real Madrid's offer, as Lopetegui had already extended his contract to lead Spain beyond EURO 2020.
There was no other option but to immediately sack Lopetegui and appoint Fernando Hierro. The former national team captain, Hierro, had only a short coaching stint with the small club Oviedo and had already been sacked; his coaching experience was practically zero.
He was Carlo Ancelotti's assistant at Real Madrid in the 2014-15 season, and couldn't help. "Spain's style of play at the 2018 World Cup was like a Picasso sketch. It was a disgraceful performance. They deserve to return to Madrid soon," exclaimed one Spanish fan after the defeat.
One couldn't see any distinctive playing style of the Spanish team, the most successful team in history with 3 consecutive major championships (Euro 2008, 2012 and World Cup 2010).
With 79% possession, 1,029 accurate passes in 120 minutes, and 25 shots on goal, Spain boasted impressive statistics, but the reality was they were powerless against Russia's well-organized defense. Many argued that, given their caliber, players like Diego Costa, Koke, and Silva could have done even better in the finishing department.
Lacking tactical ideas, poor thinking, and incompetent in utilizing his players, Hierro turned Spain into a chaotic mess. A team that cannot win simply by passing the ball back and forth in midfield without a single shot on goal after 10 minutes of intricate passing.
Spain lacks a link, a top-class "number 10" behind Diego Costa, someone who can create breakthroughs and convert possession into dangerous opportunities. It's unclear why coach Hierro keeps using two defensive midfielders when goals are needed.
Don't believe in tears.
Despite our fondness for Russia, we were among the few fans who believed that goalkeeper Akinfeev and his teammates might only make it through the group stage. Only 26% of Russian fans believed that, and only 8% believed that Russia could advance beyond the round of 16.
Many people also believe that when they know the Russian team will face the Spanish team, this confidence level will be even lower.
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| An aerial duel between Russian players and Spain. Photo: Internet |
Despite being the underdog and falling behind (an own goal by Ignashevich in the 12th minute), the Russian team fought hard and managed to equalize near the end of the first half, and they did everything they could to take the game to a penalty shootout.
"The Russian Bears" fought with more than 100% of their ability; they ran, ran so much that Spain couldn't overcome the curse to beat the World Cup host nation.
The credit goes toCoach CherchesovandGoalkeeper Akinfeev became the hero with two successful saves, helping Russia win 4-3 and secure a place in the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since becoming an independent nation.
The Russian team (including the former Soviet Union) reached the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in over 30 years. President Putin, unable to attend the match at the Luzhniki Stadium due to other commitments, watched it on TV and immediately called to congratulate coach Stanislav Cherchesov and his team on their victory.
As for us, those who love Russia and the Russian team…were in tears!