Curitiba: Fabio Capello’s side will need to win their match in order to stand a chance to progress into next round. Belgium are already considered to be through thanks to a rather comfortable goal record and so both sides will battle it out for the second position.
Algeria played outstandingly against South Korea as they scored four goals past them that have given them chance to be in prime position at the group table and so a draw would be fine. Algeria coach Vahid Halilhodzic hopes his side can ease the pain of a controversial exit from the World Cup 32 years ago by qualifying for the second round for the first time in their history.
Algeria missed out on the second round in 1982 on goal difference after West Germany and Austria played out a 1-0 win for the Germans in the last group game to ensure both sides progressed. For Algerian manager Vahid Halilhodzic theer is no injuries nor suspensions and could be expected to feature the same starting line-up.
Russia will be under more pressure as the match represents a final chance to rectify two disappointing results as they were held 1-1 by South Korea before being beaten 1-0 by Divock Origi’s winner for Belgium two minutes from time on Sunday.
A lot more had been expected of Capello’s men after an impressive record in qualifying, which saw them top their group ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.Right-back Aleksei Kozlov who suffered an injury at the Belgium defeat is not expected to feature in this match, but striker Aleksandr Kerzhakov would love to become Russia’s all-time top scorer – as he is just one goal away.
6th min : Komborov puts a lovely ball inside the box, Kokorin comes up with a thumping header
29th min: Algeria equalize what a ewply Akinfeev manage to blok Slimani’ shot
42nd min : Chance for Algeria to equalise but Slimani heads the ball striaght into keepers hand
58th min : Kozlov given yellow card
