Russia needed a late goal in their first World Cup qualifier to secure a victory over Wales on Wednesday.
The Russians, semi finalists at the recent European Championships, had a tough night against Wales who had already won their opening qualifier on Saturday.
Roman Pavlyuchenko put Guus Hiddink’s men in the lead with a converted penalty kick in the 22nd minute, but Wales found their way back into the game.
The Britons got their reward in the 67th minute when Ledley beat the Russian goalkeeper to make it 1-1.
However, Russia did eventually take the three points thanks to a goal from Zhirkov in the 81st minute.
