Russia retained the Cerebral Palsy World Championships after a narrow 1-0 victory against Ukraine on Sunday.
In front of a near capacity crowd at St. George's Park – including many of the players from the 15 nations taking part in the 12-day tournament – Alexander Kuligin scored the only goal to give Russia the crown.
The Russia striker pounced on a rebound early in the second half to tap home, with goalkeeper Kostyantyn Symashko helpless on the ground.
Russia celebrate their CP success (Photo: Mark Farnell)
Avtandil Baramidze's side dominated possession for large spells, and had the best of the chances throughout.
However, they had Vladislav Raretckii to thank after he prevented a late Ukraine offensive with a string of fine saves.
In particular, with the end of the game fast approaching, Oleh Len thought he had taken the game to extra-time.
He controlled a long pass perfectly and riffled a fierce shot towards the top corner.
Ukraine collect their runners-up medals
But Raretckii – beaten just once in six games at the 2015 Championships – produced a spectacular save to gasps of a appreciation from the crowd at the National Football Centre.
It was not to be though for the European champions and referee Keith Stroud's whistle was greeted by exuberant celebrations – on and off the pitch.
Earlier in the day Brazil secured a third-place finish, with a resounding 6-0 victory against the Netherlands.
A Wanderson Silva de Oliveira hat-trick, Fernandes Celso Alves Vieira brace, and Evandro de Oliveira Gomes de Souza strike proved the difference.
