The Russians arrived in Yerevan as the leaders of Group B and unconditional favorites but the hosts, Armenians, although failing to score a goal managed to prevent the rivals from doing so.

During a news conference that followed the match, Russia coach Dick Advocaat was calm enough, saying that a draw is not a bad result. However, he was displeased with his men who couldn’t seize a chance to kick a goal.

Armenia coach Vardan Minasyan, whose men are showing the best football in the history of the national team, reiterated that the most important thing for him is to show beautiful football matches along with achieving results.

“After the match I thanked the players for a good game and steadiness,” he said.

The situation in Group B remains complicated. Russia’s failure was used by Slovakia which smashed Andorra and took the lead. Russia and Ireland come 2nd and 3rd with 10 points each.

The return match between Armenia and Russia is scheduled for June 4 and will be of key importance for both. Russians will try their best before the 2014 World Championship. Armenians, in turn, will fight to break through to the UEFA EURO 2012 qualification round finals. The team stands a good chance with young and hungry for victory players, a talented coach and supports of thousands of fans.