Russia coach Guus Hiddink admitted that he was pleased with the improvement shown by his team tonight after their opening game debacle against Spain. He expects a `toughї encounter against Sweden in their final group match. ( Goal.com )
Hiddink altered his team slightly for this encounter, with Sergei Ignashavich giving the side a more experienced and sure-footed look in defence. The back-line had been admittedly porous against the Spanish and Hiddink is pleased that lessons have been learned.
He said: "They showed tonight that they know what a high-level, high-standard football is. I'm very happy they reacted very fast (after the Spain game)."
In the aftermath of the win, Hiddinkїs thoughts turned to the crunch Group D showdown between his side and Sweden. The teams are competing for a berth in the quarter finals alongside Spain, whose qualification was ensured today.
"The game will be a different game," he continued. "It will be a tough game against Sweden. They are tough and they are experienced."
Hiddink was rueful that his side took so long to forge an opening, and lamented his teamїs profligacy in front of goal.
He said: "We should have killed the game earlier. When you have five-six chances, you should score 50 per cent of them. We played good football and everyone did their job defensively. Tall guys can hurt you."