Denis Cheryshev stars again, earning an 8 as Russia beat Egypt 3-1 to all but qualify for the World Cup knockout stages

Aditya Devavrat 00:20 20/06/2018
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  • Denis Cheryshev starred for Russia again.

    Russia have all but booked their passage through to the knockout stages of their home World Cup after a 3-1 victory over Egypt.

    It’s been a stunning showing from the hosts, who were widely derided going into the tournament, but backed by their vociferous home support, the players have risen to the challenge of the occasion.

    Here’s how Russia’s heroes performed on the night.

    STARTING XI

    Igor Akinfeev 6 – A calm, cool, collected, performance from Russia’s veteran goalkeeper. Didn’t have a save of note to make, but commanded his area well.

    Mario Fernandes 7 – Stood up well against Egypt’s attack and did some excellent work going forward as well, assisting Denis Cheryshev’s goal.

    Ilya Kutepov 8 – A towering performance from the young centre-back, helping Russia quell the Egyptian threat in attack.

    Sergei Ignashevich 7 – The 38-year-old was an assured presence at the back, providing much-needed leadership in Russia’s impressive back-line.

    Yuri Zhirkov 6 – The former Chelsea player was an assured presence at the back, doing well against the challenge of Mohamed Salah, whose threat was largely nullified.

    Yuri Gazinskiy 7 – Anchored Russia’s midfield well, helping control the flow of the game from the middle of the park.

    Roman Zobnin 7 – A tireless performance from the midfielder, getting forward to support the attack and tracking back in equal measure.

    Aleksandr Samedov 7 – The Spartak Moscow attacker had a solid game, providing incisive passes and valuable effort on the flank.

    Aleksandr Golovin 6 – Didn’t have the starring impact he did against Saudi Arabia, but stuck to his task well and grew into the game.

    Denis Cheryshev 8 – Another well-taken goal from a man reminding everyone why he was one of the more hyped talents coming out of Russia a few years ago.

    Artem Dzyuba 8 – Supreme control and finish for his goal, just reward for the way he led the line and attacked Egypt’s defence throughout.

    SUBSTITUTES

    Daler Kuzyaev 6 – Came on just as Egypt were threatening a comeback, and helped his side close out a memorable victory.

    Fedor Smolov 6 – Provided fresh legs and a robust presence for the last few minutes of the game after replacing Dzyuba.

    Fedor Kudryashov 6 – Had little to do after coming on late in the game, replacing the evergreen Zhirkov.

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