Russia defeated Spain 4-3 in the penalty shootout after being held to a 1-1 draw in 90 minutes and extra time. Akinfeev was named the man of the match.

"It was a very difficult game both physically and mentally. Spain attacked often, we had a tough time in the defense. Today we managed to knockout one of the favorites to win the tournament, now we'll work and prepare for the next match. We're happy to reach the quarter-finals. All the team were playing great today. Akinfeev is a great goalkeeper, he was a huge help," Fernandes told journalists.

Russia have reached their first-ever World Cup quarter-finals since the break-up of the Soviet Union and will face the winner of Croatia and Denmark’s encounter. The quarterfinal will take place at Fisht Stadium in Sochi on 7 July.