Algeria Clinches Historic World Cup Round of 16

Algeria passed the group stage of the World Cup for the first time in its fourth attempt, after a 1:1 draw with Russia in the final group G match.

It looked as though Russia, who needed a win to qualify, would be down to business when they scored an early 6th minute goal by Alexander Kokorin. Their pressure continued well into the first half, but did not materialize into a bigger lead.

Against the run of play, it was Algeria who scored the second goal of the match, with a header from Slimani following a corner kick in the 60th minute.

The Russians pushed for a much needed winner, but the African side organized itself effectively in the penalty box and repelled all of the opponent’s crosses. Goalkeeper Rais M’bolhi, who plays for Bulgaria’s CSKA, once again showed top class making a number of crucial saves.

Algeria finish the group in second place with 4 points, earning themselves a mouthwatering clash with one of the tournament favorites Germany in the next round. Belgium, who beat South Korea 1:0 to take the group’s top spot, will face the United States, who edged out Portugal on goal difference in group G.

Friday will be the first day without matches at the World Cup, as the 16 teams gear for the knockout stage. Here are all the second round matches:

Brazil – Chile

Colombia – Uruguay

Netherlands – Mexico

Greece – Costa Rica

France – Nigeria

Germany – Algeria

Argentina – Switzerland

Belgium – USA