Russia knocks out Spain after penalty shootout
Russia sensationally knocked Spain out of the World Cup after coming out on top of a penalty shootout.
Missed penalties from Koke and Iago Aspas ensured Russia progressed to the last eight for the first time in the post-Soviet era, sparking joyous celebrations in Moscow.
CNN’s Alex Thomas said jubilant Russian fans were still partying outside the Luzhniki Stadium an hour-and-a-half after the game had finished.
“I can’t explain my feelings, it’s so wonderful,” one Russian fan leaving the stadium said.
Russian journalist Robert Ustian told CNN that he saw people crying and hugging each other in the aftermath of the penalty shootout.
“I thought Russia would be in the best case third in the group … when they went out of the group, I thought the mission is completed,” Ustian said.
Russia fans celebrate after their national side beat Spain on penalties at the 2018 World Cup.
Russia fans celebrate after their national side beat Spain on penalties at the 2018 World Cup.
Spain, by comparison, will now have to pick up the pieces from a tournament that was thrown into disarray just days before it began when coach Julen Lopetegui was dismissed after agreeing to become the new manager of Real Madrid.
The Spaniards’ exit also signaled the end for 34-year-old Andres Iniesta who, after the match, confirmed that he was retiring from international football after a glorious career.
“Sometimes the endings are not as one dreams,” said the former Barcelona player, a key member of the Spanish team which won two European championships and a World Cup.
“It is the saddest day of my career,” added Iniesta after his 131st and last appearance for Spain.
courtesy : cnn.com
photo : edition.cnn.com
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