2018 FIFA World Cup: Russian fans celebrate team's 5-0 victory

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02:11

So a dominant opening match for the hosts Russia, and obviously, the thrashing of Saudi Arabia has their fans in a jubilant mood. Their supporters went in with hope of a victory, but even after picking up all three points, the final result was still beyond their wildest expectations. Dan Williams reports from Moscow.

Kickoff time for Russia 2018.

The opening FIFA World Cup match pitted the hosts against Saudi Arabia -- the two lowest ranked sides in the competition. Although Russia went into the match without a win in seven outings, fans arriving at the official Fan Fest in Moscow remained confident."

"I hope Russia will win. We are very happy to be here. We are so excited. Russia forever."

"If we win today, we will win all World Cup."

A heavy security presence greeted fans arriving at the venue. In the build-up, authorities promised unprecedented safety measures to curb fears over possible terrorist attacks, as well as the threat of hooliganism. If any Russian fans were nervous ahead of the game, those feelings were soon swept away.

Yuri Gazinsky scored the opener for Russia after 12 minutes. By the time the final whistle sounded, the hosts had crushed Saudi Arabia 5-0. It was the biggest win by a host nation in the opening game of a World Cup since 1934.

"It's a great day for all Russian people. It is a great day for all Russian football, and we will be in the final!"

DAN WILLIAMS MOSCOW "So delight for the Russian fans. The national team have given the host nation real hope of progressing to the knockout stages -- although matches against Egypt and Uruguay promise to provide a much tougher test."

But for now, for the hosts at least, the party is just beginning. Dan Williams, CGTN, Moscow.