Russia beat Spain at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium on Sunday. The two teams drew 1-1 after extra time, but Russia beat Spain 4-3 on penalties.

"[Russia] beat one of the world's strongest teams, the coaching staff chose the right strategy for the game and carefully studied their opponent. The players are heroes. They gave their all leaving not 100 percent but 200 or 300 percent of their effort on the pitch. Now they need to rest and prepare for their next match. The team are making history for Russian football," Alaev said.

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 quarter-final will take place at Fisht Stadium in Sochi on 7 July.