First world cup match analysis : Russia vs Saudi Arabia

The opener on June 14th features a clash between two of the lowest-ranked teams that have qualified for the tournament: hosts Russia and Saudi Arabia, ranked 70 and 67 respectively according to the latest FIFA rankings.

Russia Info

Russia is host in World Cup that is about to come. As such they skipped qualifiers. One thing is certain; Russia would have serious trouble to qualify for final tournament. They are far from glory days although they are still able to surprise from time to time. After dissolution of Soviet Union, Russia played in only three final tournaments and they recorded mediocre two wins, two draws and five defeats. They also never passed group stage. In last four friendly matches they scored only three times and as result they lost three of those four games. First opponent have good results recently and if not for home ground Russia would hardly be considered favorite. Main goal for Russians will be not to lose opening game so we may expect somewhat defensive approach to the game.

Russia vs Saudi Arabia Predictions

Saudi Arabia Info

Saudi Arabia is one of four Asian countries that earned their ticket to World Cup 2018. They finished in second place in group B two points behind Japan. Australia also had nineteen points in the end but because of better goal difference Saudi Arabia went directly through. . Interesting fact is that most of their away matches they lost while on the home ground they play well. Before the beginning, Saudi Arabia played two more strong matches in Switzerland and opponents were Italy and Germany.