For Thiago and the Spanish national team, the dream of a second World Cup title to add to their 2010 crown is over. Despite dominating proceedings, Spain lost 4-3 on penalties to hosts Russia after the match had ended 1-1 after 90 minutes and extra-time. In front of a crowd of 78,011 at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, the Spaniards took the lead thanks to an own goal from Sergey Ignashevich but Russia drew level with a penalty from Artem Dyzuba shortly before half-time. The score remained 1-1 throughout the second half and extra-time, taking the match to penalties. Russia goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev was the hero for the host nation, saving penalties from Koke and Iago Aspas to take his team into the quarter-finals. Bayern star Thiago watched the whole match from the substitutes’ bench.
Boateng rules out international retirement
Bayern defender Jérôme Boateng has ruled out international retirement following holders Germany’s exit from the 2018 World Cup at the group stage. “That was never a question in my mind. I still don’t think I’ve reached the peak of my ability,” the 29 year-old told German newspaper Welt am Sonntag. Despite the huge disappointment of the team’s first ever elimination from the group stage, Boateng is adamant he wants to “continue playing” and along with his teammates, “show the Germany we know again – a strong Germany, a strong national team.”
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