Capello happy despite late US equaliser

Russia 2-2 USA

A home draw with the US ended a run of four straight wins for the national side but after the game, Russia’s head coach Fabio Capello declared that he was pleased with the result and the team’s efforts.

Capello had been forced into a number of changes due to injury while he experimented with a younger side that ultimately turned in a positive performance and were unlucky to concede something of a freak goal in second half injury time.

'I'm really pleased with what we showed today,' Capello told reporters.

'I've managed to see a lot of new young players tonight and now I could use them in competitive matches.'

Fyodor Smolov opened the scoring on his debut after just nine minutes but sadly for the Anzhi man, he was forced off by injury shortly after. The 1-0 scoreline remained until fourteen minutes from time when Michael Bradley’s volley gave Vladimir Gabulov no chance in the Russian goal.

Zenit’s dependable Roman Shirokov restored the lead from the penalty spot and with the seconds ticking down, Mix Diskerud levelled the scores after his shot took an outrageous deflection.

Russian supporters may be disappointed but it’s six games unbeaten now for Capello whose side enjoy an extended break until March when they return to World Cup qualifying in Northern Ireland.