England’s hopes of qualifying for Euro 2008 took a big blow on Wednesday after Russia came away the 2-1 winner in a tense match in Moscow. Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney hit an impressive volley to open the scoring in the 28th minute, but Russian substitute Roman Pavlyuchenko equalized from the spot in the 69th minute before firing the Guus Hiddink’s side ahead four minutes later.
It was a spectacular collapse following a bright first half from England, during which the Lions scored the first goal, hit the crossbar, and missed two glaring chances to go ahead 2-0. Steven Gerrard volleyed wide after Gareth Barry found him open at the back post, while defender Micah Richards mishit a Rooney flick on a few minutes later.
Russia’s first goal came in somewhat controversial circumstances. As Pavlyuchenko was brought down after he slipped past Rooney, but the contact appeared to occur outside of the penalty area. However, the referee awarded a penalty which the substitute duly converted. Then, four minutes later, Robinson parried a hard shot from outside the area into the patch of Pavlyuchenko, who beat his defenders to the ball to put Russia in front. The second goal seemed to bury England’s confidence, as the Lions failed to create any meaningful chances from thereon in. Now, England can only qualify for the European Championships if Russia doesn’t win both games on the road at Israel or Andorra — provided it beats Croatia in London next month.