US football coach Jurgen Klinsmann is proud of his men for salvaging a draw in a friendly against Russia, which he sees among the strongest football teams in the world.

“This friendly match was really competitive and exciting,” Klinsmann is cited as saying by Sportbox.ru. “I am sure that fans of both teams enjoyed it. The Russian national team has proven that they are one of the strongest in the world. And I admire my players, who were able to come back twice in a meeting with such a serious opponent.”

Russia played a 2-2 at home against the US, with America’s Mix Diskerud equalizing in second-half stoppage time.

“During the break, I told the boys that if they continue playing like they did in the last 20-25 minutes of the first half, then we’ll surely have a chance to save the game and even win. And I was right. Every minute we looked more confident and eventually managed to avoid defeat,” Team USA coach stressed.

Klinsmann wasn’t at all surprised to see a full-house gathering for his team in southern city of Krasnodar.

“Russia have great players, a brilliant team and one of the best coaches in the world,” the 48-year-old said. “And, of course, when the people in provincial cities, like Krasnodar, receive a chance to see their national team, they pack the stadium and create an incredible atmosphere.”

Russia and the US may well meet again in Brazil 2014, with both sides looking strong in World Cup qualifying.

Russia are five points ahead of second-placed Portugal in their group, with the Americans have made it to the fourth round CONCACAF qualifying stage.

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