Kuranyi nets winner for Dinamo

Kevin Kuranyi fired Dinamo Moscow into the knockout stage of the Europa League as victory at home to Estoril maintained their 100 per cent record in Group E.

The hosts finally made the breakthrough to settle an attritional game in the 78th minute when their German striker scored from close range.

The win made it four out of four for the Russians in a pool they have dominated.

Having won 2-1 in Portugal a fortnight ago, Dinamo would have been confident of a more comfortable three points this time around.

But, despite dominating the opening exchanges, they struggled to break down determined opponents.

Aleksei Ionov's drilled shot from the right side of the area which was parried away by Pawel Kieszek after eight minutes was as close as they came in the first half.

Instead it was the visitors who almost took the lead shortly before half-time, Kleber seeing his shot from inside the box tipped round a post by Vladimir Gabulov.

And Kleber threatened again early in the second half when he shot over when well-placed.

But Kuranyi eased home nerves with 12 minutes remaining.

William Vainqueur helped the ball across the six-yard box and Kuranyi, who had just managed to stay onside, tapped it into the net.

Estoril tried to muster a response, but with time ticking away they could not fashion a clear chance.

Despite defeat, qualification is still in their hands, though.