Russia's form in recent friendlies has been poor to say the least.

Tonight's draw with Turkey brought an end to a dismal losing run.

H v Turkey 1-1
A v Austria 0-1
H v France 1-3
H v Brazil 0-3

Whilst losing to France and Brazil isn't shameful the overall picture isn't too good. Russia/Soviet Union have always been inconsistent but they're being consistent now but not in the way they'd prefer.

I think they may find a way...

Mysterious food poisoning outbreaks amongst their opponents perhaps?

I think we'll have (literally) seen the last of the manager if they don't!!

Haven’t Austria been unbeaten since their new coach arrived?

ecc wrote:Russia's form in recent friendlies has been poor to say the least.

Tonight's draw with Turkey brought an end to a dismal losing run.

H v Turkey 1-1
A v Austria 0-1
H v France 1-3
H v Brazil 0-3

Whilst losing to France and Brazil isn't shameful the overall picture isn't too good. Russia/Soviet Union have always been inconsistent but they're being consistent now but not in the way they'd prefer.

They lost to Spain, Argentina, Austria and France, not what i'd consider a ''dismal'' losing run, only 3 games lost in a row (a 3-3 draw with Spain inbetween 2 defeats). No shame in losing to France, Spain or Argentina.

Uruguay should win that group comfortably. Then it comes down to Russia and Egypt for second place, home advantage and Salah's injury may just sway it in the Russians favour.

When was the last time the host nation failed to qualify?

Group A: Russia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Uruguay.

2 to go thru.

Russia v Uruguay last game - of course, at the same time as Saudia Arabia v Egypt.

Then first and second should face Spain and Portugal in the round of 16.

It's going to be a fascinating World Cup.

They're not a good side but they will definitely qualify from their group. Make of that what you will!

South West Claret. wrote:When was the last time the host nation failed to qualify?

South Africa in 2010.

Thanks FF I just couldn’t remember

FactualFrank wrote:South Africa in 2010.

England in the last rugby world cup.

Russia are the lowest ranked team in the tournament so would normally be in the minnows pot 4. However I think Saudi's ranking is a bit false and they should be the whipping boys of the group.

Uruguay should win at a canter, with Russia and Egypt playing for 2nd place. Expect either some dodgy refereeing decisions or the Mo Salah show.

I've got Russia in the work sweepstake, so they won't win a single game.

Walton wrote:I've got Russia in the work sweepstake, so they won't win a single game.

Fingers crossed

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One way or another Russia will be put in the knockout stage.