Rodriguez sent off a player from each side and he also awarded a penalty in each half to the Ivory Coast.

Petkovic said: "By awarding two penalties against us he allowed Ivory Coast to dominate the game.

"The referee did what he had to do but he should ask himself several questions about the way he handled the match."

Petkovic was more gracious in his praise of the Ivorians.

"Ivory Coast played an outstanding match. They were unfortunate, with more luck they could have come second. Ivory Coast were superior to us."

Petkovic added: "I am proud of my team for qualifying for the World Cup and for playing here and also for scoring two goals against the Ivory Coast.

"I am proud of everyone who has worked for me and the Federation bosses and the conditions are there for Serbia to progress. Time will prove me right."

After Serbia were humiliated 6-0 by Argentina in their second Group C game, Petkovic announced he would step down after the World Cup.

Serbia's coach had described the Argentina defeat as "a debacle".