catalyst2 | Game # 48 - Algeria vs Russia

Both teams had a chance to qualify out of this game so both had plenty of reasons to score goals - and it started early with Russia getting the first after just 6 minutes. It might just qualify as the best headed goal of the tournament so far with Kokorin fairly slamming in the header. Algeria and Russia essentially alternated attacks for the rest of the first half with both sides coming close on a number of occasions. The half finished 0-1 to Russia. The sense of pressure on Algeria was evident at the start of the second half and they very nearly conceded a second goal - however, Mbohli stopped the shot well. In the 60th minute Algeria's attack finally clicked and Slimani scored the equaliser. The Russians very nearly pulled the lead back just ten minutes later but Mbohli came to the rescue again, skilfully stopping a Kerzhakov shot. With their supporters roaring them on, Algeria maintained the scoreline, though not without some close calls as Russia attacked again and again. The game finished 1-1.

This meant that Algeria were through in second place with Russia in third. Great game and a pulsating contest throughout.