Host nation Russia had an impressive opening performance to lift the curtain at the 2018 World Cup. Unexpectedly, the Russians annihilated Saudi Arabia 5-0.
First Half
Saudi Arabia was surprisingly dominant as the game started. They had good ball possession and decent defense. In fact, they did not allow a shot on goal by Russia during the first 10 minutes. Things changed in the 12th minute however, as Yuri Gazinsky scored with a header to give Russia the 1-0 lead.
From that point on, Russia was good enough to take control of the game. They were aided by plenty of defensive mistakes on the Saudi end, and things got tougher for the Saudis when Russia scored again. Denis Cheryshev, minutes after coming in off the bench, scored on a brilliant goal. With that goal, Russia were good for the 2-0 halftime lead.
Second Half
The second half started in somewhat of a different manner. Saudi Arabia seemed to pick up the pace, and enjoyed better possession. As a result of this, the match got stuck in midfield for a few minutes.
This did not last long as Russia regained control of the pace of play. Goalkeeper Abdullah Al-Mayouf kept the Saudis in the game…..for a little while, at least.
In the 71st minute, Russia sealed the deal, as Artem Dzyuba headed home from Aleksandr Golovin‘s cross. Russia was now up 3-0, putting an end to any Saudi hopes of a comeback.
Cheryshev scored again as the game went into time added on, curling home a ball from the edge of the box for his second goal.
Last but certainly not least, Golovin struck with a marvelous free kick, capping off a fine individual performance. Russia now sits atop Group A with a comfortable goal difference as a result of this outing.
Egypt and Uruguay face off tomorrow for the second match of Group A. Other action tomorrow includes Group B action between Morocco and Iran, and the day’s action is completed by a matchup of titans between Spain and Portugal.
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