Football
ESPN staff 7y

Stanislav Cherchesov plans to stay on as Russia coach after Confed Cup loss

Russia coach Stanislav Cherchesov said he would not resign after the Confederations Cup hosts were eliminated in the group stage, saying he belives his side gained valuable experience.

Mexico rallied for a 2-1 victory over the tournament hosts in Kazan on Saturday to go through to the semifinals alongside group winners Portugal.

But Cherchesov remained "optimistic" with the World Cup less than a year away and praised his young squad.

"I'd like to congratulate my players because they did the best they could," Cherchesov said. " I don't think anyone can doubt that they gave it their all on the pitch.

"I'm confident that all the players who've taken part in the tournament will draw on the experience to develop and mature. Three-quarters of the squad have never played at this level, and with new players coming through all the time I'm optimistic about the future."

"The team played their hearts out and I don't think anyone watching in the stadium or on their TV screens can say otherwise."

Cherchesov was asked if he would resign with the first question in his postgame news conference  but he shrugged off the speculation and said he remained committed to improving Russia ahead of next summer's main event.

"We have the most trendy journalists nowadays," he said.  "They're called 'unnamed sources.' I will continue to work, with pleasure. The informer you dreamt about, please pass on my regards.

"I think we've managed to achieve a huge leap and we should not stop. Believe me -- we'll analyse things when passions calm down."

Cherchesov also backed goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev, who misjudged a long ball forward, allowing Mexico's Hirving Lozano to score the winner.

"Every player and every goalkeeper is entitled to commit an error, it's something you have to live with," the coach said. "We'll discuss these aspects and life will go on, this is sport. I'm convinced he'll stay with the national team."

The tournament began with high expectations after an opening speech from President Vladimir Putin, and Cherchesov said he was glad the Russian people were behind the team.

"Obviously I'm not happy with the result, but I think we played better as the tournament went on and I also think we've changed the attitude the fans have towards to the team," he said, adding: "We managed to show good football. We are making steps in the right directions."

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