The 2018 FIFA World Cup got off to a great begin as hosts Russia beat Saudi Arabia in the opening game in Moscow on Thursday. After an opening ceremony that saw Robbie Williams thrill the crowd, Russia were pumped up for the game as the Saudis were overwhelmed in what ended up being an entirely one-sided game.
Yury Gazinsky opened the scoring for the hosts in the 12th minute before playmaker Alan Dzagoev fell off harmed gripping his hamstring. Nonetheless, he wasn't missed as substitute Denis Cheryshev doubled the lead with a radiant move.
Artem Dzyuba made it 3-0 in the second half before Cheryshev made it 4-0 with a glorious outside-of-the-boot strike in stoppage time. To top off a five-star display, Russia made it 5-0 when Aleksandr Golovin nestled into freekick with what was the last kick of the game.
Below was how Twitter reacted to the game:
Germany nearly drew against this team last week.
Biggest margin of victory in an opening game since 1934. Not bad for the weakest hosts ever!
Gutted for Dzagoev going off early in a home World Cup but Cheryshev more than taken his chance, lit up game with 2 wonderful goals. Couldn't wish for more obliging opponents in #ksa but crushing win for hosts great way to start #WorldCup
Two assists. One goal.
Aleksandr Golovin.Mohamed Salah watching the #KSA defence like...#WorldCup #bbcworldcup
Until today, Denis Cheryshev had never scored for Russia. After this game, he is now one goal behind Cristiano Ronaldo (in the #WorldCup only). #RUSKSA
That’s a huge blow for Russia. All the talk before the tournament has been about Golovin but Dzagoev is every bit as good. You can’t say much for Russia’s midfield generally so that’s a real shame. #RUSSAU
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