News Archive

World Cup - Round of sixteen

Spain 1 – Russia 1 (3-4 penalty shoot out)

Its all over, Spain have been prematurely knocked out of the World Cup after losing to Russia on penalties! La Roja had lost all eight games against the host nation in major competitions before this one, but they had the better of play early on, and they took the lead when Ignashevic turned in a wide Marco Asensio free kick under pressure from Sergio Ramos. However an ultra-defensive and physical opponent kept them at bay after that, and with four minutes to go to half time Dzubya levelled the scores from the penalty spot after the ball hit Piqué’s upraised arm in the area. Akinfeev made good saves from Iniesta and Aspas after the break, and from Piqué and Rodrigo in extra time, but with no more goals it went to the penalty shoot-out. The Russian keeper stopped spot kicks from Koke and Aspas though, and Fernando Hierro’s side were on their way home. (01.07.18)