2018 World Cup: Russia Thrash Saudi In Tournament Opener

Russia's players celebrating a goal

The world cup kicked off yesterday with a surprising scoreline in the opening game between Russia and Saudi Arabia. The host nation, Russia comprehensively thrashed Saudi Arabia, 5-0 with Yuri Gazinsky scoring the first goal with a header 12 minutes in.

Russia’s second, third and fourth goals were all by substitutes: one by Artem Dzyuba and two by Denis Cheryshev. With time running out, Aleksandr Golovin got a fifth goal on a free kick, past a badly tired Saudi defense.

Saudi Arabia, a team whose players are virtually all based in their home league, played averagely but just couldn't get one shot on target.

Even at halftime, the Saudi Arabian players looked tired.

It was a great start for the host nation, who will still face Egypt and Uruguay in order to qualify for the next round.





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