Vladimir Putin says football unites planet as World Cup begins in Russia
0
ESPN FC's Kasey Keller praises Russia's direct play and how well they used their strengths in a convincing 5-0 win against Saudi Arabia.
Russia and Saudi Arabia fans are out in full force ahead of the 2018 World Cup opener. Russia welcomed the world to the World Cup on Thursday as fans streamed in, the hosts savoured a 5-0 victory and President Vladimir Putin's government derided Western efforts to isolate him.
The Russian leader, greeted by huge cheers ahead of the hosts' opening game against Saudi Arabia, spoke of showing the world a hospitable Russia and of sport overcoming differences.
Russia is grappling with Western sanctions imposed after its seizure of Crimea from Ukraine four years ago, but talking of a love...