Preview RUS-SRB: A Test for Russia

August 10th, 2011 | by: nick |

Russia will be playing Serbia today (Aug 10) in a friendly match at Moscow’s Lokomotiv Stadium. This match will be a test for both teams as they prepare for crucial Euro 2012 qualifiers which will require their best form.

Russia are in second place in Group B with thirteen point and face critical home matches to Macedonia and the Republic of Ireland. Victories in both matches will likely narrow the group down to Russia and Slovakia. Similarly, Serbia are in third place in Group C with only eight points. Victories over Northern Ireland and the Faroe Islands in their upcoming matches will provide a foothold to overtake second placed Slovenia. Based on these circumstances, it is perfectly conceivable that both teams will make the most of this friendly and field their best lineups as they face their respective battles to reach Euro 2012.

Based on the squad Dick Advocaat picked, it is clear that he will use the usual line up to test and examine his best players to see if any changes need to be made. Goal.com has speculated that Glushakov and Sheshukov will be in the starting line up but I believe it is most likely that the Semshov-Zyrianov partnership will start. Another interesting speculation omits Arshavin from the starting lineup but that is not a huge surprise as he has been mediocre for Arsenal and Russia.

Advocaat may start with a 4-5-1 formation but I think a 4-4-2 with the wide midfielders playing closer to the center may be more effective. I would like to see a midfield with Semshov and Zyrianov in the center flanked by Dzagoev and Bilyaletdinov or Glushakov. This will allow Anyukov and Zhirkov to dominate the flanks and for the midfield to dominate the center. Speculations are that Pogrebnyak is likely to start up front but Russia clearly need to score more goals and fielding two strikers may help alleviate that issue.