By Connor Boyd and Shekha Bhatia For Mailonline

Published: 17:44 BST, 1 July 2018 | Updated: 17:55 BST, 1 July 2018

Hosts Russia are through to the quarter finals of the World Cup after the a dramatic penalty shootout against Spain.

The host nation held the Spaniards to a 1-1 draw sending the tie into penalties for the first time in this year’s tournament. 

Ex-Liverpool striker Iago Aspas and Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke missed from the spot meaning Russia won 4-3 on penalties.

England’s chances of a World Cup final place increased after Spain, who were considered one of the favourites, were eliminated.

The former champions would’ve been one of England’s major obstacles on route to the final on July 15. 

The hero of the hour was Russia goal keeper Igor Akinfeev who saved two penalties. 

Spain were expected to be the major contenders on England’s side of the draw.

Spain were the only previous winners left in the side of the draw that England feature in. England are likely now to have to beat Colombia on Tuesday and then face Sweden or Switzerland and then Russia or Croatia in the semi final.

Gareth Southgate’s men have to, of course, beat their own path to the final but the possibility of facing Spain appeared, on paper , to be England’s most formidable opponents.  

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