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We did not really expect Russia at this stage of the race. Dominated by Spain in the round of 16, Russia created the surprise by leaving the 2010 world champions after a shootout with goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev was the hero.
This is the first time Russia is in the quarter-finals of the World Cup since the break-up of the Soviet Union. The USSR had reached this stage of the event for the last time in 1970.
The Croatians also had to go through the penalty shoot-out to force the doors of the quarters, the score being 1-1 after extra time against Denmark.
At the half-hour mark, the Russian Cherichev opens the score with a brilliant goal (1-0). Ten minutes later, the Kramaric Croatian replica and equalizer with a head that deceive Akinfeev.
Just before the hour of play, Perisic has created the clearest opportunity of the second half thanks to a shot that ended its race against the post.
THE COMPOUNDS
Russia : Akinfeev, Fernandes, Kutepov, Sergei Ignashevich, Kudriashov, Cheryshev, Samedov, Zobnin, Kuziyev, Dzyuba, Golovin
Coach: Stanislav Chershesov
Croatia : Subasic, Vrsaljko, Strinic, Lovren, Vida, Rakitic, Modric, Kramaric, Rebic, Mandzukic, Perisic
Coach: Zlatko Dalic
