Hosts Russia advanced into the quarter-finals of the World Cup on Sunday when they beat 2010 Champions Spain 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in full time.
Russia keeper Igor Akinfeev saved Koke’s and Iago Aspas’ spot kicks in their first ever penalty shootout to send the hosts through following a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes.
Spain, who have never beaten a host at World Cups or Euros, went ahead after 12 minutes when 38-year-old Sergei Ignashevich bundled into Spain captain Sergio Ramos at the far post, knocking a free kick in with his heel for the 10th own goal of the tournament.
Russia, ranked No.57 in the world by Fifa, qualified for the World Cup only because it is hosting the tournament. Spain are currently ranked No.10.
Gone from the World Cup tournament so far are No.1-ranked Germany, No.4 Portugal and No.5 Argentina. Second-ranked Brazil play Mexico in Monday’s early game, while No.3 Belgium face Japan immediately after.
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