The host nation will take on Croatia in the Black Sea resort of Sochi on Sunday morning (AEST) after edging out 2010 World Cup winners Spain on penalties.

"You have already created history. I wish you good luck in the quarter-finals of the World Cup and, the most important thing, don't get injured. The entire country is rooting for you," Nurmagomedov wrote on his Instagram account.

The 29-year-old, who holds a perfect record of 26 wins and no losses and is the first Russian to win a UFC title, also thanked Russia striker Artem Dzyuba for presenting him with a number one Russia shirt signed by the team's players.