Goals from Ciprian Marica and brothers Daniel and Marius Nicolae proved Russia's undoing, with the lack of experience showing from a side which included two international debutants.

Hiddink told Sport Express: "We saw the difference between two of the Euro 2008 finalists.

"In one team were gathered footballers that compete in the leading European leagues and who face serious challenges every week.

"In the other were players playing in the Russian championship.

"Unfortunately in Russia the players don't play in matches at the top level as often as I would like to see.

"In order to be a strong national side it is necessary to always give everything you have got. Once again a lack of experience let us down.

"At half-time we should have come in at 0-0 but in the last minute of the first half we made a silly mistake."

Russia face further friendlies against Kazakhstan, Serbia and Lithuania, none of whom have qualified for the finals, as Hiddink's men continue their preparations for this summer's European Championship.

And the Dutchman admitted he has a lot to consider before naming his final squad in May.

"It may be a heavy defeat, but, somewhat paradoxically, I am happy to have played against such strong opposition," he added.

"Believe me, in Bucharest I obtained a mass of useful information.

"In the two or so months until the start of the finals we have a lot to think about."

Russia are grouped with Spain, Sweden and defending champions Greece at Euro 2008.