KRASNODAR, Russia, November 14 (R-Sport, James Ellingworth) - US coach Jurgen Klinsmann hailed his team's spirit in rescuing a 2-2 draw with Russia on Wednesday.
Rosenberg striker Mix Diskerud blasted home a stoppage-time equalizer in a game that began with a debut goal for Russia striker Fyodor Smolov.
The draw extends to nine games an unbeaten run for the US since a 4-1 defeat to Brazil in May, while Russia have yet to lose in six games since Fabio Capello took charge in July.
"We showed a lot of character to come back," Klinsmann said after a game in which his team went behind twice. "We showed that we can play with the best teams in the world."
The German former international striker said his side showed glimpses of the ability to win the match before half time, with the score at 1-0 to Russia.
"At half time, we said to the team if you continue to play like you did the 20, 25 minutes before half time, there’s a game, you can win this game."
He lambasted his defense, however, for the ease at which Smolov put Russia ahead, put through in acres of space by Alexander Kerzhakov.
"We can’t give away like we did the first goal."
Michael Bradley brought the US level on 76 minutes, striking a powerful shot off knock down from Juan Agudelo.
Roman Shirokov's 10th international goal restored Russia's lead when he stepped up to score from the spot on 84 minutes after goalkeeper Tim Howard had brought down Artyom Dzyuba.
Despite the near-freezing conditions in Krasnodar, the southern city where the match was played - ironically to avoid the Moscow chill - Klinsmann praised the warmth of the local support.
It made a welcomed change for the United States, which is accustomed to playing in hostile Central American arenas for World Cup qualification.
"Qualifying in our region is very different, because when you play in Central American countries it's not so welcoming, like you welcomed us here in Russia," he said. "It's not just the rivalry on the field, it's a lot of social elements off the field."
