Hosts Russia recorded the biggest upset of the 2018 FIFA World Cup on Sunday when they knocked out 2010 winners Spain in the pre-quarters by virtue of a thrilling penalty shootout and La Roja midfielder Isco has taken to Instagram to express his disappointment.
Isco and Co. were heavy favourites to progress to the last-eight but found it difficult to click in attack against the hosts, despite dominating possession from the off.
The Real Madrid midfielder posted this on his Instagram handle:
The post, when translated, reads: “And it’s the saddest day of my career … but this is football and this does not stop … life does not stop … it’s time to get up as we’ve always done … pride in defending this country.”
A sad day for Spanish football indeed, as iconic midfielder Andres Iniesta announced his retirement from international football in the aftermath of their defeat at the Luzhniki Stadium.
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Isco and his compatriots dominated the hosts for the most part of the 120 minutes, but struggled to fashion any clear-cut chances against a dogged Russian defence.
In fact, Russia custodian Igor Akinfeev wasn’t truly tested in regulation and extra time.
He did earn his keep, however, in the ensuing penalty shootout, saving spot-kicks from Iago Aspas and Koke as the hosts stunned their fancied opponents in dramatic fashion.
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While Spain now fly back home, Russia will face the Croatia in the quarters.
The Croatians edged Denmark in a nail-biting manner as well, winning a shootout 3-2 to book their berth in the last eight.