"We played a solid match and I'm satisfied with our performance. My players reacted well after the opening goal and it was the best possible birthday present they could have given me. Even so, I'm a little disappointed because we could have won the game," announced Russian coach Fabio Capello.

With faulty goalkeeping came a disappointing draw today by Korea and Russia, June 17 at the Arena Pantanal, Cuiaba.

The first half of the game was marked at 0-0. Both teams were too defensive, although there has been a lot of opportunities. It was looking like it would end up like Nigeria vs. Iran match that happened yesterday.

The only difference is that, Russia was not living up to their fans expectations as Korea continued to play fearlessly yet organizedly. The Asians looked dangerous, but their efforts were just not enough to make a goal. Russians looked like they have a hangover from their coach's birthday bash.

But some progress came as the second half happened, especially just about 20 minutes left on the clock. It was South Korean Lee keun-Ho gave his team an advence point at the 68th minute, thanks to Russian goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev's weak defense. Akinfeev already caught the ball, but bounced it bounced off his hands, thus, Korea's first point for the World Cup.

Then, after six minutes, came the equalizing goal through Russian striker Aleksandr Kerzhakov. It was a low shot pursued through the net because of Korean goalkeeper Jung Sung- Ryong lack of focus.

Though the game started weak, most fans were convinced that this is a stepping stone into South Korea's budding skills in the World Cup. Playing against a supposed to be favorite, the draw is a sign that the Asian team is improving at every game in their performances.