The questions over whether host Russia will be able to get past the group stage in its own native land have been answered. Two wins and an 8:1 goal difference have put Sbornaya in pole position ahead of Monday’s third round clash with Uruguay at Samara’s Cosmos Arena. The starting time is 14:00.
The eternal dilemma looms over Uruguay vs. Russia. Play to win or play based on who you want to face next. Portugal and Spain are dead even, but Hierro’s men hurdled past a sturdy Iran side and should have an easier time against Morocco. The Portuguese are next on Iran’s schedule and a win puts Carlos Queiroz’s team right back into contention. Therefore, logic dictates that Spain tops Group B at the end. What that means is if the Russians finish first, they’ll avoid La Roja. Judging by how they’ve played so far, there’s nothing to suggest Cherhesov’s men will opt for such a solution. In all likelihood, they arrive in Samara looking for the win and then let faith determine the rest.
How real is this? Has Russia really been underestimated or is this all a consequence of the opponents they were drawn against? The truth lies somewhere in the middle. Facing Saudi Arabia and Egypt can’t be compared to facing Sweden and Mexico for example. Yet, there are elements of Russia’s style of play, approach and commitment that are worthy of admiration. From 34-year-old Yuri Zhirkov and 33-year-old Alexander Samedov holding up against footballers of a much younger age, to Denis Cheryshev and Artem Dzyuba showcasing characteristics we’ve only really seen from them at a club level, Stanislav Cherchesov has instilled will and confidence in this team that has lifted the nation. That, along with the fact Russia is playing with a chip on its shoulder after being written off before the tournament even started, gives this team an edge that can be very dangerous once the next phase comes knocking on the door.
Unlike previous World Cups, where Uruguay came in and stole the show, this time Oscar Tabarez’s team is underwhelming. It battled past Egypt and then last Wednesday, it battled past lowly Saudi Arabia as well. We all thought Russia got lucky with the draw, but as it turns out, it’s the Uruguayans who were the lucky ones. In another group, they could’ve been without points. Christian Rodriguez and Carlos Sanchez entering the starting lineup didn’t make much of a difference. Creativity is a real issue. Yes, Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez are world-class strikers, but they are not given the opportunity to demonstrate that on a consistent basis.
Just like against their previous adversaries, those two will be Uruguay’s advantage on Monday afternoon. Ignashevich and Kutepov are not defenders who can stop them. What can stop them is the overall apathy of this Uruguay squad, which is completely opposite of Russia’s determination and passion. Their pressure forced opponents into mistakes in the previous two rounds. Why should we think that’ll change?
Odds
Uruguay 2.70
Draw 3.10
Russia 3.00