costly late goal in Russia's win over Slovenia

Heading into the opening leg of their playoff tie against Slovenia, Russian manager Guus Hiddink warned his side of the opposition's commitment to play up-tempo style through the full ninety minutes.

True to form Slovenia fought to the last gasp and in many ways Russia was fortunate to escape with a 2-1 victory at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium. While the victory is naturally well-received by Russia, with the all-important away goal Slovenia manager's Matjaž Kek knows his side are more that

For full report please visit preeminent Russian daily sports newspaper Sports-Express (Спорт-Экспресс)