Capello backs contrite Russian keeper Akinfeev

Brasilia: Fabio Capello threw his support behind Igor Akinfeev after the goalkeeper`s self-confessed "kids" error very nearly spiked his 68th birthday celebrations and Russia`s return to the World Cup after a 12-year absence.

Capello watched on aghast as Akinfeev`s fumbling let in Lee Keun-Ho`s 30 metre shot to gift South Korea the lead in the Group H clash in Cuiaba. Akinfeev`s blushes were spared when Alexander Kerzhakov levelled three minutes after coming on to salvage a 1-1 draw against the 2002 semi-finalists. Despite the near catastrophic start Capello was in benevolent mood towards the CSKA stopper after a result that left both countries trailing Belgium who head Group H after their 2-1 win over Algeria. "Just like some players can miss penalties it can happen that a keeper makes a mistake as well," the Italian said. "You can accept a mistake from a great keeper like Akinfeev. Today it turned out fine as we were able to make up the difference. I`m very happy with Akinfeev." The keeper himself cut a contrite figure after the final whistle at the Arena Pantanal. "It was a kid`s mistake and I bare full responsibility," he admitted. "I can`t say that it was because of worry. "Maybe I wasn`t sure in myself, I don`t know. The guys supported me. I say thanks. The goalkeeper of the national team shouldn`t make mistakes like this one." After a cautious start Korea`s goal awoke Capello`s Russian bear, which had virtually lain dormant throughout the first half. "My players showed a wonderful reaction after we conceded the goal," said the man in charge of England at the last World Cup. "We were so nervous at the start, the players weren`t as smooth as normal," he added. "But it was visible after the Korean goal that we sprung right back and played like we know how to." He said he`d thanked his side for their reaction. "It was the greatest birthday gift I could receive, this means the team is willing, capable and can do it." While Russia now face Belgium, the Koreans` next attempt to qualify for the knockout stages is against the Algerians in Porte Alegre on Sunday. Coach Hong Myung-Bo, who attained iconic status in Seoul after captaining his country to the last four in 2002, had mixed feelings at the outcome. "We had the game in the bag for a small moment, and then they levelled, so we have to move on now and concentrate on our next game. "I`m very satisfied with the performance of my players, tactically and physically they gave their utmost. Man-of-the-match Son Heung-Min described his World cup debut as "a dream". "I really wanted to show something in this game," added the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder who fulfilled a more attacking role than he does normally for his club. "We had a good match today, it will help our confidence, but we can be better than this."