Inspired Israel spring surprise

Russia 1-2 Israel

Poor preparation
A home defeat was the last thing the Russians wanted with their hopes of qualifying for the UEFA EURO 2004™ finals hanging in the balance. Valeri Gazzaev's men travel to the Republic of Ireland on 6 September before a home match against Switzerland four days later.

Deadlock broken
After a goalless first half, Nimni broke the deadlock for the visitors on 52 minutes. Then, as the home side pushed for an equaliser, Balili found a second for his side with nine minutes left on the clock. Sergei Semak pulled one back for the hosts late on but it was to be in vain.

Smertin missing
The Russians were without captain Alexei Smertin, who was reported to have left Moscow for London to sign a four-year contract with English Premiership club Chelsea FC. Russia are third in qualifying Group 10, with seven points from five matches. They are three points behind the second-placed Irish and five adrift of the table-topping Swiss, with a game in hand on both.

Coach might quit
After the match, Russia coach Gazzaev said he would be considering his future tomorrow. "There's no need to talk about the match. The players were totally lacking any will to win, so I told them in the locker room 'if you play like that I'm no longer your coach'."

Slovenia test
Israel, meanwhile, have realistic hopes of taking second place in Group 1 and with it a place in the play-offs. The Israelis have eight points from five matches, two less than second-placed Slovenia who they meet on 6 September in Ljubljana. France are the outright group leaders with maximum points from their five games.