World Cup 2018: Russia team busy preparing for second match

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Europe

02:08

More now on the World Cup in Russia. Fans of the host nation arrived at the tournament with low expectations - Russia is the lowest ranked team in the competition. But that all changed following a 5-nil opening win over Saudi Arabia. CGTN's Dan Williams reports.

On the outskirts of Moscow lies Russia's Federal Sports Center. This is where the Russia national team is busy preparing for their second World Cup match.

Russia surprised many in the opening game of the tournament, demolishing Saudi Arabia 5-0.

The victory proved a number of their critics wrong. And the glow of satisfaction for the players remains.

ANTON MIRANCHUK RUSSIA MIDFIELDER "It has been amazing to receive all the congratulations from the people. I see everyone's happy. And it is impossible to even be in Moscow right now with so many fans and everyone is in a good mood. So we need to continue. It had a really positive impact."

The training base is buzzing with activity from media attention to visits from key officials including Vitaly Mutko, the former head of the World Cup local organizing committee.

DAN WILLIAMS MOSCOW "The feel-good factor around the Russia national team is clear to see. But the challenge now becomes even more difficult. First, Russia will face Egypt before a match against group favorite Uruguay."

If the Russia team is able to produce a repeat of scenes like these, then it will need to find a way to stop Egypt's star player Mo Salah who is expected to return from a shoulder injury.

ALAN DZAGOEV RUSSIA NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM "We watched Egypt's match against Uruguay. Egypt is a well-organized team. They put a lot of pressure on the ball. We know that this match is a step up from Saudi Arabia but we hope that the victory will be ours."

The celebrations may have died down following the opening day victory. But expect more of the same if the Russian team prevails once again. Dan Williams, CGTN, Moscow.