Russia’s Semak rues late Slovenia goal

MIDFIELDER Sergei Semak admitted Slovenia’s late goal in Russia’s World Cup qualifying first leg play-off left him uneasy ahead of Wednesday’s return clash.

Russia dominated the match and led comfortably through Everton midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov’s brace. But substitute Nejc Pecnik’s header two minutes from time left the tie in the balance at 2-1, and they could even have levelled as Marko Suler forced a superb stoppage-time save from Igor Akinfeev.

“The match left me with mixed feelings,” Semak said. “I’m pleased we won, but the way the game ended doesn’t leave you at ease in the run-up for the next match.”

Slovenia produced little in attack and Robert Koren’s 88th-minute shot in the build-up to Pecnik’s goal was their first on target.

Semak added: “They didn’t surprise us because it was obvious they came here with the aim of not allowing a goal. Only after we scored the second did they go all out.”

Slovenia coach Matjaz Kek was relieved after Pecnik’s contribution. “We have found a goal that keeps us in the game,” he said. “In the first half we gave away a stupid goal, and we also started badly in the second half.”