Russia vs Saudi Arabi Review

Russia 5 - 0 Saudi Arabia 


Despite the scoreline suggesting otherwise, the opener to the 2018 World Cup, Russia vs Saudi Arabia lacked footballing quality. Russia's Alexandr Golovin was the standout star, assisting 2 of the 5 and getting his name onto the scoreboard with a late free kick to get Russia's fifth. Substitute Denis Cheryshev scored twice, becoming the first subsititute to score in the opening game of a World Cup. Cheryshev's second goal was reminiscent of Tshabalala's goal vs Mexico In South Africa's World Cup 2010.

Despite the quality of Russia's stand out players, Saudi were poor and begged the question how they managed to reach the World Cup finals. Saudi's best player, if there has to be one was probably left back Yasser Al-Shahrani who plays for Al-Hilal in his native country. 

 Since his performance in the opener, Golovin has been linked with Arsenal and Liverpool, which considering his Man of the Match performance yesterday will definitely bolstered his pricetag. 

 Russia's long-serving President Vladimir Putin was all smiles will FIFA President Giovanni Infantino, and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman, even fist-bumping the Saudi Prince. 

 Russia now move on to St Petersburg to face Egypt next Tuesday with a spring in their step. Saudi Arabia, in contrast, have have a tough task, facing Uruguay in Rostov later the same day. 

 Following Jose Maria Giminez's 90th minute header winning header to break Egyptian hearts sees Russia lead Uruguay on goal difference after all 4 teams have now played once in Group A. Tuesday's fixture would surely determine who progresses between Russia and Egypt, plainly because Egypt are strong favourites and should easily beat Saudi Arabia. The brilliant Mo Salah will be fit to partake in the fixture and Saudi will struggle to handle him. 

 Group A Prediction:
Uruguay
Egypt
Russia 
Saudi Arabia

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