2002 World Cup - Yugoslavia 0 Russia 1

Russia claimed a narrow away win in Belgrade to edge nearer a place in the 2002 World Cup finals but Yugoslavia are almost certainly out of contention.

Russia have 13 points from five games now and are five points clear of Switzerland with Slovenia a further point adrift.

The Yugoslavs only have five points from four games and have an aging team and political problems in finding a way for the current coach to introduce names for the future to add to their problems.

a 72nd minute headed winner by Vladimir Beschastnykh was a fitting conclusion to a quick passing move that saw Rolan Gusev sweep in a cross from the right beyond the home defenders.

Beschastnykh almost added a second in the 82nd minute when he was clear through on goal but steered his shot on the run past the far post.

Russia were hit by seven withdrawals and injuries in the build up to this match but were comfortable in containing the home team who have little future in the search for a place at next year's finals and found it hard to prevent Russia from playing on the break.