Russia manager Fabio Capello can still keep his side in the tournament if they manage a victory against Algeria. Russia has secured just one point out of their last 2 games and anything less than a three points tomorrow they will need to make travel arrangements to go back home disappointed. Russia had almost secured a point against Belgium but a defensive lapse and the brilliance of Eden Hazard robbed them of the point with 2 minutes left on the clock. They are by far the better team in the game but the North Africans are no less having as they have already managed to take away three points. This will be an interesting fixture as Russia will go all out to win while Algeria will, worst case scenario, look for a draw.
Players to look out for:
Algeria will have a completely fit squad with no player suffering an injury or facing suspension. Midfielder Abdelmoumene Djabou has been his country’s best player in the tournament having scored a goal and provided an assist, he will be crucial for his team’s advances towards his opponent’s goal. He will be complemented by compatriots Yacine Brahimi, Feghouli and Slimani all of who have had a eventful time having scored a goal each. For the Russians Maksim Kannunikov and Kokorin’s performance will be paramount in their country’s fortunes.
Teams head-to-head:
The two teams have no history of having faced each other.
Probable line-ups:
Algeria (5-3-2): Mbolhi; Bougherra, Mesbah, Halliche, Mandi, Bentaleb; Feghouli, Medjani, Brahimi; Slimani, Djabou.
Russia (3-5-2): Akinfeev; Kombarov, Berezutskiy, Ignashevich; Glushakov, Kokorin, Shatov, Samedov, Fayzulin; Kozlov, Kanunnikov.
Prediction:
Algeria is a formidable opponent for Russia to face with their apparent inconsistencies and lack of goal scoring. Algeria is the favorite to win unless Capello can pull a rabbit out of the bag which can overturn the glaring Russian exit from the brink.
Final Score Prediction: Algeria 2 – 1 Russia.
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