DHAKA: Algeria has qualified for the World Cup knockout stages for the first time after Islam Slimani's headed equalizer gave his team a 1-1 draw against Russia on Thursday.

Algeria placed second in Group H behind Belgium, meaning it will meet Germany in the second round.

Russia dominated much of the match after taking the lead in the 6th minute when Alexander Kokorin powerfully headed in a left-foot cross from Dmitry Kombarov.

Slimani's 60th-minute equalizer came after Russia goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev failed to catch a swinging left-foot free kick from Yacine Brahimi. That was the second costly error that Akinfeev has made in the tournament for Russia, reports NDTV.

Russia needed a win to advance to the next stage.

BDST: 0848 HRS, JUN 27,2014