England earned a valuable point against Russia ©Fispic

England came from a goal down to draw 1-1 with defending champions Russia at the Blind Football European Championships in Rome and boost their chances of a semi-final place.

Victory tomorrow over Greece – who remain bottom of Group B following today's 3-0 defeat by Germany – will assure England of a place in the last four.

This year's tournament, organised biennially by the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA), has added importance as the top two sides qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.

The Russians, beaten 2-0 by France in their opening Group B match at the Italian Tre Fontaine Paralympic Preparation Venue, recovered with a 4-0 win over Greece yesterday and their impetus carried them to a half-time lead, but England struck back.

Spain, the team Russia beat on penalties in the last European final two years ago, delivered a comprehensive 4-0 defeat of the hosts that left them as clear leaders of Group A.

Earlier in the day, Belgium gained their first points in Group A, coming from 2-1 down to beat Romania with a late winner.