Northern Ireland 1-0 over Russia: Score and Post-Match Reaction
In one of the evening's few competitive fixtures, Northern Ireland and Russia squared off in a 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying match at Windsor Park.
Fabio Capello's Russia are fighting tooth and nail to finish atop Group F. They began the night two points off Portugal but with two games in hand.
The Green and White Army were unable to qualify for the showpiece event next summer in Brazil despite the Group Stage still going, but that didn't mean they were willing to make it easy for their opponents.
They started brightly, taking three shots inside the first five minutes and worrying their European charges. Martin Paterson, in particular, looked hungry and eager to contribute to an upset.
After 10 minutes, Capello's side found their feet, but Gareth McAuley made two super blocks and tackles to halt promising, dangerous play from the visitors.
By the 25th minute, the hosts were under the cosh, hemmed into their own half and chasing shadows as Russia danced around tackles with ease.
Alan Dzagoev, in particular, was pulling the strings for Aleksandr Kerzhakov and company; it seemed only a matter of time before the visitors took the lead.
But against the run of play, Northern Ireland claimed first blood: Steve Davis hit the post, then Paterson converted after curling a super header into the net.
Halftime brought Michael O'Neill's team short reprieve, but the second half was only more of the same.
The visitors remained dominant on the ball and carved out several chances, but Craig Cathcart and McAuley stood as pillars in defence, a cut above the rest.
A succession of substitutes changed nothing for Capello's side, and Northern Ireland began replacing key runners with fresh legs to see out the result.
The final whistle blew to crown a famous victory for the Irish: battered, bruised, exhausted—but victorious.
The race for top spot in Group F has been blown wide open, and Portugal will now feel renewed hope that they can avoid the dreaded playoffs.
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