When the hosts were pooled alongside Brazil at the draw for the finals of Russia 2006, the gasp around the hall was audible. The Russian delegation could hardly have wanted to face such a tough opponent in their opening group game. However, the other attendees at the ceremony licked their lips in anticipation of a most appetising starter to the tournament, served up with helpings of the Russian resolve and Brazilian flair.
Russia coach Valentin Grishin also welcomed the draw: "It's good we're playing Brazil in the opening match. It's the start of the tournament, we'll be fresh and so we can put everything into the game."
Russia have played the Auriverde only once before in this competition, at the quarter-final stage of the Thailand 2004. Leading 2-1 with just minutes remaining, Russia allowed their opponents to equalise, and the South Americans went on to win 4-2 in extra time. It is clear from this match that the 2005 European champions should be able to face the Brazilians without trepidation, particularly in light of two major changes to the respective squads.
In St. Petersburg, Brazil will not be fielding star striker Marta, who was not released by her Swedish club, while the driving force of the Russian team, Elena Danilova - who did not play in Thailand - will appear for the tournament hosts.
Brazil fell at the semi-final stage both at Canada 2002 and Thailand 2004, so are now out to better their achievement. Russia ended their debut appearance at the FIFA World Championship at the quarter-finals, and this time Grishin is very clear about his team's goal: "Our main objective is to get through the group stage."
Though the hosts will be without tough-tackling defender Oksana Titova because of injury, Grishin insists that their "ability to play team football" should limit the impact of her loss.
17 / 08 / 2006 17:56