Russia vs Slovakia – Superb Hamsik inspires Slovakia

Marek Hamsik scored a stunning goal as Slovakia defeated Russia to register their first ever win at the European Championships , giving them some hope for qualification for the next round and Russia now need to beat Wales if they are to qualify.

Slovakia were the better team inside the first 20 minutes and tested goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev from long range twice. It was Russia who had the first real chance , striker Dzyuba just could not generate enough power to head his side home.

Dzyuba then turned provider for Fyodor after 28 minutes but his strike brushed the post and went wide.

Russia were then made to pay , when Napoli star Hamsik set up Vladimir Weiss , who cut inside and gave slovakia the lead.

Russia created chances in the second half but once again their finishing let them down, before Weiss returned favour to Hamsik who struck spectacularly to double Slovakia’s lead.

Denis Glushakov got one back for Russia with 10 minutes to go with a well-placed header but they were unable to complete the comeback despite a heavy spell of late pressure.

Slovakia will now look forward to confirm their place in the last 16 against England while Russia now face an enormous task against Wales.