Algeria made history when they finished with a game against Russia with a draw at Arena da Baixada, Curitiba. Russia needed a win to advance to the knockout rounds but Algeria didn't want to give up the fight and pursued a goal.
Russia clearly dominated the game having been able to secure their first goal at an early 6 minutes into the match. The 23 year old Russian forward made a powerful left-foot cross strait into the net. Then after, Algeria has been working hard to keep up the pace started by the Russians.
It was at the 60th minute when the Algerian striker, Islam Slimani, made his outstanding goal forcing the game into a draw.
The Algerians celebrated over their achievement. Algeria team manager Vahid Halilhodzic said "I am very, very proud of what we have achieved tonight. We played a heroic match and our qualification for the second round is entirely deserved. We went for the result with generosity, enthusiasm and discipline. We have not forgotten: everyone is talking about Algeria-Germany from 1982, when Algeria won 2-1. Thirty two years is a long time and I am very proud."
He added "There is a lot of love for this team, even in Brazil. People here love our sincerity and our strength. Our behaviour has been irreproachable too: we have had only two or three yellow cards in all our games. There are better teams than us but we have earned a lot of affection in the world."
On the other hand, Russian coach blamed the laser beams for their defeat. Fabio Capello defended his goal keeper saying "He was blinded by the laser beam." He added "There are pictures. You can see that in the footage. This not an excuse, it is a fact. There was a laser. I have never come up with excuses to get by in my entire life."
Will Algeria's strong teamwork and sportsmanship lead them forward and ahead of the other teams in the knockout stage?
We will soon find out since Algeria placed second in group H below Belgium, they will soon face Germany for their first game in the knockout rounds.
