The Asian nation were utterly abject in their Group A clash with Russia this morning, delivering one of the most comically inept defensive performances witnessed at this level. Three managers in less than a year proved fatal. Juan Antonio Pizzi’s men were disjointed, unadventurous and truly awful in defence. They can make their holiday plans now. Saudi Arabia’s World Cup seems over already.
However, the hosts enjoyed the most one-sided 5-0 opening victory in the tournament’s history.
Aleksandr Golovin underlined his potential, playing a key role in the opening two goals, before scoring the fifth with a fabulous free-kick. Russia’s other goals were scored by Yuri Gazinsky, Artem Dzyuba and Denis Cheryshev (two). As expected, Golovin dominated proceedings and may believe he can steer the hosts towards the knockout stages.
But Russia will face superior opposition when they face Egypt and Uruguay. To be honest, they’d probably face superior opposition at Farrer Park on a Sunday morning.
Alan Dzagoev’s hamstring injury was a serious loss for the hosts. Russia have lost an experienced playmaker, but gained a raw gem in the gifted Golovin. He has opened a path to the knockout stages.
The road for Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, leads straight to the airport.
Neil Humphreys
Singapore’s best selling author and Football columnist
