Fabio Capello threw his support behind Igor Akinfeev after the goalkeeper's self-confessed "kids" error very nearly spiked his 68th birthday celebrations and Russia's return to the World Cup after a 12-year absence.

Capello watched on aghast as Akinfeev's fumbling let in Lee Keun-Ho's 30 metre shot to gift South Korea the lead in the Group H clash in Cuiaba.

Akinfeev's blushes were spared when Alexander Kerzhakov levelled three minutes after coming on to salvage a 1-1 draw against the 2002 semi-finalists.

Despite the near catastrophic start Capello was in benevolent mood towards the CSKA stopper after a result that left both countries trailing Belgium who head Group H after their 2-1 win over Algeria.

"Just like some players can miss penalties it can happen that a keeper makes a mistake as well," the Italian said. "You can accept a mistake from a great keeper like Akinfeev. Today it turned out fine as we were able to make up the difference. I'm very happy with Akinfeev."

The keeper himself cut a contrite figure after the final whistle at the Arena Pantanal.

"It was a kid's mistake and I bare full responsibility," he admitted. "I can't say that it was because of worry. "Maybe I wasn't sure in myself, I don't know. The guys supported me. I say thanks. The goalkeeper of the national team shouldn't make mistakes like this one."

After a cautious start Korea's goal awoke Capello's Russian bear, which had virtually lain dormant throughout the first half.

"My players showed a wonderful reaction after we conceded the goal," said the man in charge of England at the last World Cup. "We were so nervous at the start, the players weren't as smooth as normal," he added.

"But it was visible after the Korean goal that we sprung right back and played like we know how to."

He said he'd thanked his side for their reaction.

"It was the greatest birthday gift I could receive, this means the team is willing, capable and can do it."

While Russia now face Belgium, the Koreans' next attempt to qualify for the knockout stages is against the Algerians in Porte Alegre on Sunday.

Coach Hong Myung-Bo, who attained iconic status in Seoul after captaining his country to the last four in 2002, had mixed feelings at the outcome.

"We had the game in the bag for a small moment, and then they levelled, so we have to move on now and concentrate on our next game.

"I'm very satisfied with the performance of my players, tactically and physically they gave their utmost. Man-of-the-match Son Heung-Min described his World cup debut as "a dream".

"I really wanted to show something in this game," added the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder who fulfilled a more attacking role than he does normally for his club.

"We had a good match today, it will help our confidence, but we can be better than this."