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Russia Decimates Saudi Arabia in 5-0 in First World Cup Match

Russia decimated Saudi Arabia 5-0 in first match of the World Cup

Russia is a country that loves its sports; they love sports glory more. In their opening match against Saudi Arabia, Russia did exactly that as they brought a close to a 16-year wait after defeating Saudi Arabia 5-0 in the opening match of the 2018 World Cup.

As Russia President Vladimir Putin, the Saudi Crown Prince and FIFA president Gianni Infantino looked on from the VIP boxes, it was Russia’s first win since 2002 and with it, giving Russia hope the country will move beyond the group stage, an achievement not experienced since the former Soviet era.

Yuri Gazinsky was first to put Russia on the board after scoring after a pass from Alexander Golovin that saw Gazinsky sending a header past the Saudi goaltender. Gazinsky was in the right position to charge forward after a stumble by Taisir Al-Jassam.

The goal caused a smile on the usual emotionless face of Putin as he shook the Crown prince’s hand and shrugged. Russia scored again at the 43-minute mark after Denis Cheryshev scored what was the first of two goals for the substitute. The first of the two went over the shoulder of Saudi goaltender Abdullah Al Muaiouf; the second was during extra time.

Speaking on his success in such an important game for Russia, Cheryshev said,

“I have never done anything like this. I already felt very happy when I knew I could come here with my squad, but I never, ever dreamed of something like this.”

After the goal by Cheryshe to give Russia a 2-0 lead, Artyom Dzyuba came off the bench joining the field and taking less than 90 seconds to make it 3-0 for Russia after picking up a pass from Alexander Golovin and sending the ball into the net.

The opening ceremonies saw Putin welcoming all those visiting the host nation and promising Russia would be a friendly and hospitable host nation. It saw Robbie Williams performing for the world stage singing Let Me Entertain You choosing not to sing “Party Like a Russian”, a song that caused some controversy in Russia
Putin has been open about wanting to see Russia achieving greater success in international sports such as the World Cup and Olympics. However, there have been few successes for athletes in Russia after multiple athletes lost their medals for doping.

Saudi Arabia hasn’t won a World Cup match since 1994. They were unsuccessful in getting a shot on net, and for Russia, yesterday’s win was a huge boost for the counties hope of advancing as the host nation. Russia will next face Egypt on the 19th, and then six days later, Uruguay. If Russia is successful in even a draw in its next two games, it could be enough to advance after scoring five goals in its opening match. For the Saudis, they will play Uruguay on the 20th and Egypt on the 25th.

Punters looking to get in on some World Cup action have some great opportunities that are favourable odds with some of the nets leading sportsbooks. One of those featured is bet365, known worldwide for their high-quality betting options and professional sportsbook. New players to bet365 are able to claim up to $200 in bonuses when they register and make a first-time deposit. With special World Cup promotions that include Early Payout offers, Penalty Paybacks, Each-way first goal scorers, and with live match updates, bet365 has it covered.

Author Noah is our American writer who likes to give his own spin on everything Golf & the NHL he covers mainly the US side of the game as Doug covers the Canada. In his time off he can usually be taking to the greens or on the ice playing some hockey