Slovakia beats Russia to get their first European Championship win.

Stade-Pierre Mauroy, Villeneuve-d’Ascq

Group B

Russia                                  1 – 2           Slovakia

Denis Glushakov 50’                          Vladimir Weiss 32’

                                                               Marek Hamsik 45’

As a debutant in the competition, Slovakia was looking to earn their first point in European Championship history. Despite losing their first match. Slovakia performed really well against Wales, even when they were numerically disadvantaged.

After being pinned back in the entire first match by England, Russia started the match with an intent to attack.

Against the run of play, Slovakia was up by a goal in the 32nd minute. With a single move, Vladimir Weiss was able to beat two Russian defenders who couldn’t control their running. He placed his angled shot far from the reach of the Russian goalkeeper.

Thirteen minutes later, Marek Hamsik who was very lively in this match, doubled the lead for Slovakia from a further and tighter angle than the goal before. Slovakia caught Russian defense sleeping, and played a  short corner, allowing Hamsik to try a shot at goal. The strike bounced off the post before going into the net.

A point from their match with England is keeping Russia alive in the competition. Their best bet is to go into the final match of the group and win it. Wales would be the opposition in that match

Slovakia has earned their first win and point on the same day. They are sitting up on Group B table with Wales (who are yet to play their second match). They will face England in their final match. From what we’ve seen from this team, a win could be on the menu.

Group B is setting up for a possible advancement of both Wales and Slovakia. They are two teams making their debut in the competition, and a move into the knockout stage will be a great start to their European Championship record.