Russia on Monday started their preparations for the FIFA World Cup with a workman-like 1-0 victory over Slovakia in the Russian city of St Petersburg, with substitute Alexander Kerzhakov heading the only goal of the game eight minutes from time.
Coach Fabio Capello chose a strong starting lineup, with seven of the players almost certain to be in the starting 11 for Russia’s opening World Cup game against South Korea in Cuiaba, Brazil, on June 17.
The opening 15 minutes set the tempo for the game, with Russia clearly not wanting to risk injury ahead of their first World Cup appearance in 12 years, while the Slovakia players already had an eye on their summer holidays after missing out on qualification.
Photo: AFP
Alan Dzagoev, who has been a peripheral figure under Capello, looked bright during the friendly, while Miroslav Stoch was industrious for the visitors, but neither goalkeeper was seriously tested in the first 45 minutes.
The second half had even less rhythm to it, as both coaches made numerous substitutions.
Alexander Kokorin thought he had put Russian in front after latching onto a glorious through-ball by Sergey Ignashevich before lifting the ball over Jan Mucha.
Photo: Reuters
However, the Dynamo Moscow forward was adjudged to have been marginally offside.
With the match petering out into a draw, substitute Kerzhakov headed Russia into the lead when he was left completely unmarked meeting Maxim Kanunnikov’s inviting cross to send a header past the stranded Mucha.
“At the moment, it is vital to get the team fit,” Capello said. “Our training sessions were very intense last week, so the footballers were not in peak condition.”
“I thought we were well organized in defense and that is very important. In terms of our attack, I am sure that we can play better. We needed to move it quicker,” the Italian added. “I am really happy that no one picked up an injury.”
Russia will continue their preparations for world soccer’s elite competition with a friendly in Oslo against Norway on Saturday and play their final warm-up game against Morocco at home on June 6 before departing for Brazil the following day.
After Capello’s men open their Group H campaign against South Korea, they will meet Belgium and Algeria.
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