The 2018 FIFA World Cup kicked-off on Thursday evening with hosts Russia defeating Saudi Arabia 5-0 in the opening match at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.
Russia dominated the proceedings right from kick-off against a Saudi Arabian team, which had its difficulties to handle the pressure. Yuri Gazinsky took advantage of the Russian dominance and opened the score sheet with a header in the 12th minute.
The “Sbornaja” doubled their lead moments before the half-time whistle when Denis Cheryshev hammered the ball past the Saudi goalkeeper.
The home side continued with their match plan in the second half and took advantage of a helpless Saudi side. Substitute Artem Dzyuba, impressive Cheryshev and Aleksandr Golovin converted their chances to secure a 5-0 win for Russia.
FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 – Group A
Russia 5-0 Saudi Arabia
Goals
1-0 Yuri Gazinsky (12′)
2-0 Denis Cheryshev (43′)
3-0 Artem Dzyuba (71)
4-0 Denis Cheryshev (90’+1′)
5-0 Aleksandr Golovin (90’+4′)
Line-ups
The teams for #RUSKSA are in… 👀#WorldCup pic.twitter.com/rjPSQQWUQ5
— FIFA World Cup 🏆 (@FIFAWorldCup) 14. Juni 2018
Match Officials
Referee
Nestor Pitana (ARG)
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