RUS 2-0 NIR: Step One Accomplished.

September 8th, 2012 | by: nick | Comments(1)

Capello and his team earned a victory to start off their journey to Brazil. Russia were the clear favorites to walk away with all three points and they did so to get the job done. Northern Ireland never really looked like they were in the match or finding the back of the net. Russia dominated possession which translated into two deserved goals. Fabio Cappello told FIFA.com he wanted to continue Russia spirit and yesterday’s meeting was certainly cements his promise.

Lineup
Capello did not make any drastic changes to the squad of his predecessor. With the likes of Arshavin and Pavlyuchenko ommited, this opened the door to players like Viktor Fayzulin, Dmitri Kombarov, and Aleksandr Kokorin. This certainly created more attackting options with fresher midfielders and strikers.

Formation
The formation was the habitual 4-2-3-1 with Alan Dzagoev in the attacking position flanked by Fayzulin and Bystrov supporting Kerzhakov up front. The midfield pair of Denisov and Shirokov covered the Kombarov, Berezutski, Ignashevich, and Anyukov at the back. Overall it performed very well, functioning in a quick short passing game. Kerzhakov went scoreless in this match but found himself providing the low cross for Fayzulin’s goal.

Impact Players
Victor Fayzulin: He made a major impact in only his second cap by scoring the first goal which effectively gave Russia control of the match.

Aleksandr Kokorin: His introduction continued to pile the pressure on Northern Ireland with his speed and eventually led to the hotly contested penalty.

Best Moment
Minute 30: Viktor Fayzulin slots in a low cross into a half open net after some neat short passing play.

Worst Moment
Minute 54: Dmitri Kombarov’s corner is headed wide of a clear open goal.