page_title: List of 2014 FIFA World Cup controversies
section_title: Russia vs Algeria: laser used against Russian goalkeeper
hierarchical_section_title: List of 2014 FIFA World Cup controversies / Group stage / Russia vs Algeria: laser used against Russian goalkeeper
caption_attribution_description: Igor Akinfeev
context_page_description: The 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil generated various controversies, including demonstrations, some of which took place even before the tournament started. Most centred on officiating, with referees coming under criticism for their performances. Furthermore, there were various issues with safety, including eight deaths of workers and a fire during construction, breaches into stadiums, an unstable makeshift staircase at the Maracanã Stadium, a monorail collapse, and the collapse of an unfinished overpass in Belo Horizonte. The most notable disciplinary case was that of Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez, who was disciplined after biting an Italian player, defender Giorgio Chiellini, during a game.
context_section_description: The final group stage match between Algeria and Russia on 26 June ended 1–1, thus advancing Algeria to the knockout stage and eliminating Russia. A win for Russia would have seen them qualify, and they led the game 1–0 after six minutes with a goal from forward Aleksandr Kokorin. In the 60th minute of the game, a moving green light – most likely produced by a laser pointer – was shone in Russian goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev's face while he was defending from an Algerian free-kick, which striker Islam Slimani scored from to equalise. Russia's coach Fabio Capello blamed the laser for the decisive conceded goal, saying, "The goalkeeper was unable to do his job. The laser was in his face. It is not an excuse. You can see the footage."
  After the match, the Algerian Football Federation (AFF) was fined CHF50,000 (approx. £33,000/€41,100/US$56,200) by FIFA for the use of lasers and other violations of the rules by Algerian fans on the stadium. Laser pointers were a prohibited item on the stadium, according to FIFA Stadium Safety and Security Regulations.
caption: Russian goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev
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