Sergei Semak believes Russia will face a battle to qualify for the World Cup as a late Nejc Pecnik goal gave Slovenia hope going into the second leg in Ljubljana.
Everton midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov's brace gave Russia a 2-1 home victory to take to Maribor but the game has left Semak with 'mixed feelings.'
"On the one hand, I'm pleased we won, but on the other hand, the way the game ended doesn't leave you at ease in the run-up for the next match," the veteran Rubin Kazan midfielder explained.
Semak added: "[Slovenia] didn't surprise us because it was obvious that they came here with the aim of not allowing a goal [on their side]. Only after we made the second goal, did they go all out."
Both sides will fancy their chances of progressing to the World Cup 2010 draw, which is just two weeks away, despite Russia's slight advantage and face off on Wednesday night.
Russia's manager Guus Hiddink summed up his feelings on the matter by saying: "We had a good chance to put the result beyond doubt in the first leg.
"We had a two-goal lead and chances to add a couple more but gave up a late goal, but I think we're quite capable of winning in Maribor and securing a ticket to South Africa."
Hiddink’s counterpart Matjaz Kek said: "Sure, I'm not happy, but 2-1 is still better than 2-0. We never gave up, we fought until the end and it gives us a chance in the return leg."
- By David Brenchley
Source: DSG
