Fabio Capello believes Russia's game away to Northern Ireland on Friday is their most important World Cup qualifier.
Portugal suffered a surprise home defeat by Ecuador as Russia, Belgium and the Czech Republic all picked up wins.
Gabon caused upset as they held Portugal to a draw, while Didier Drogba scored as Ivory Coast triumphed in Austria.
Fabio Capello has named his final 26-man Russia squad for next week's friendly against the United States.
Andrey Arshavin has been left out of the Russia team for next month's friendly international against the United States.
Roman Shirokov's 84th-minute penalty enabled Russia to maintain their 100 per cent record in 2014 World Cup qualifying with a 1-0 win over Azerbaijan.
Alexander Kerzhakov's early strike proved the difference as Russia edged out Portugal in their World Cup Group F qualifier in Moscow.
Alexander Kerzhakov scored twice as Russia cruised to victory over Israel in World Cup qualifying Group F.
Northern Ireland made a losing start to their 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign as they suffered a 2-0 defeat by Fabio Capello's Russia.
Northern Ireland begin their World Cup qualifying campaign with a tough looking trip to Russia.
Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill is unconcerned by remarks from the Russia camp ahead of Friday's World Cup qualifier.
Fabio Capello declined to comment on his England exit ahead of his first competitive game as Russia boss.
Holland were stunned by Belgium, Argentina beat Germany and Russia drew in Fabio Capello's first match as manager.
Fabio Capello used his first press conference as Russia boss to attack the English Football Association for interfering with his work.
Former England boss Fabio Capello has been officially announced as the new manager of Russia.
The RFU have again confirmed that Fabio Capello will become new Russia coach, despite it emerging that he has yet to sign a contract.
Fabio Capello admits he cannot wait to get started on the 'splendid adventure' ahead with Russia after being named their head coach.
The Russian Football Union have confirmed the appointment of former England manager Fabio Capello as the new coach of their national side.
Andrey Arshavin has claimed that former England manager Fabio Capello has been appointed boss of the Russia national team.
Russia will announce a new coach next week after sports minister Vitaly Mutko described talks with Fabio Capello as 'productive'.