Final Scoreline for Match 47:
ALGERIA - 1
(Slimani 60')
RUSSIA - 1
(Kokorin 6')
The last two matches of the Group stage of WC 2014 proved to be decisive, and dependent on each other's results as well.
Russia started off in spectacular fashion. Attacking right from the outset, they were quickly ahead 1-0 in the 6th minute itself. The scoreline stayed the same till the half-time whistle, although Algeria had turned aggressor by then. The only all-muslim team in the WC, they were rewarded for their persistence when Slimani headed in the equaliser in the 60th minute.
Russia squandered a lot of chances to take the lead and seal the game, and in the end, the drawn tie ensured Algeria of a spot in the Round of 16, for the first time in their soccer history.
Not like it will be easy for them in that eliminator, because they go on to face Germany.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Scoreline for Match 48:
KOREA REPUBLIC - 0
BELGIUM - 1
(Vertonghen 78')
The Belgians seem to have come into WC 2014 with one basic rule - do just about enough to ensure a win in all matches. It reflects in all their 3 matches they have played so far. Defending with their teeth, and scoring late second-half goals have proved to be fruitful for them, and although they have full 9 points from 3 wins, they have been the least impressive among all the Round of 16 qualifiers.
Korea needed a big win in their final match, but odds were against them specially when facing formidable unbeaten opponents. And Belgium's golden rule came to the fore again - a late second-half goal by Vertonghen sealed the win, and sent Korea out of the WC.
Belgium move into the Round of 16 stage, where they meet USA.