The second-half has been as expected. Spain dominating the ball with Russia sitting back and trying to counter. Isco is really in the thick of things for Spain and has forced a couple of openings. However, the Russians are holding firm!
Spain turns towards the seasoned maestro Andres Iniesta in search of a winner. Hierro’s men are increasingly desperate here. They badly need some creativity.
No joy yet for Spain as Russia are content to see them knock the ball about while remaining resolute at the back. Are we set for extra time and penalties here?
Iniesta forces a save!!! The ball breaks to him on the edge of the area and his volley needs stopping from Akinfeev. We’re going into extra time. Spain has been poor so far. Russia resolute. Will it change now?
The home crowd clap: their team has succeeded in stifling Spain, who have been slow and beret of ideas. At times it looked like both teams are playing for penalties. Russia certainly are. Can Spain summon some ingenuity in the next 30 minutes? Can’t we just go straight to a shootout? Whoever eventually emerges from this torpor will face Denmark or Croatia in the next round, neither of whom will have feel they have anything to fear.
Source: News365coza
