Russia will make its hotly anticipated World Cup return in 2014 with hopes of creating and building experience ahead of its 2018 tournament. The Russians were drawn into a highly favorable group in 2014, but will the team finally overcome its rough history in the tournament?
World Cup History
As the Soviet Union, the team participated in all but two World Cups from 1958 through 1990. The team actually performed admirably throughout those years, especially in 1966 when the team finished fourth with a record of four wins and two losses. The team also finished in the quarterfinals in 1958, 1962 and 1970. The side forfeited from the tournament in 1974 and did not qualify in 1978. In 1982, the Soviets finished in seventh and in 1986 the side finished in the round of 16. In its final tournament as the Soviet Union, the side was eliminated in the group stage.
In its first tournament as Russia in 1994, the nation was eliminated in the group round with one win and two losses. Russia failed to qualify for the tournament in 1998 and in 2002, the side managed its worst World Cup performance and was eliminated from the group stage.
How did they get here?
Russia was placed into a group that featured Portugal and Israel. Few expected Russia to walk away with the group lead, but that is precisely what happened when Portugal played below expectations throughout the qualifying round. Russia managed seven wins, one draw and two losses with 20 goals scored and only five conceded.
Big Stars
The team features a number of heavy hitters including Aleksandr Kerzhakov (24 goals in 78 appearances) as well as Alan Dzagoev and Captain Roman Shirokov among others.
However the biggest star is arguably Coach Fabio Capello who brings the most experience to this tournament. The manager coached England from December 2007 through February 2012 and competed in one World Cup with the national side. Under his tutelage, England finished second in an easy group and was thoroughly eliminated by England in the round of 16. However, Capello has also coached a number of major sides including AC Milan, Real Madrid and Juventus and is a proven winner. This tournament will be a huge test for him and his young Russia side.
Can they get out of the group?
Russia is expected to compete for a top two spot in this group. Belgium is the favorite to win first place, but Russia should have no trouble with the likes of Algeria and Korea Republic. Of course, overconfidence could hinder the group, but there is no reason to believe that Russia, under Capello will not finish first or second in the group.
Can they win it all?
Unfortunately, Russia is not ready to win this tournament and it is likely that the national side is grooming its players to make a bigger statement in 2018 when the country hosts the tournament. A first or second place finish in this group would pit the team against either Germany or Portugal (the two likely teams to get out of Group G). Portugal can be beaten, but there is no chance that Russia gets past Germany. Expect a round of 16 exit.
Can Russia win the 2014 World Cup?
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