Russia reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time since the break-up of the Soviet Union in 1991 after failing to do so in their previous three attempts.

"Russians can be proud of their team that achieved great results at the World Cup. Yes, they got kicked out, but a penalty shootout is a lottery. The level of football has grown in Russia, and the World Cup organisation is just brilliant," Baptista said.

Stanislav Cherchesov's side beat 2010 champions Spain on penalties in the Round of 16 but bowed out after losing to Croatia, also in a penalty shootout.

The USSR, who claimed the fourth place in 1966, last made it to the World Cup quarter-finals in 1970.