Time for tiki-taka

Hosts Russia must rebound quickly for today’s World Cup last 16 clash with Spain, the 2010 champions who have slipped under the radar after a tumultuous start to the tournament.

Resounding wins over Saudi Arabia and Egypt elevated expectations for Stanislav Cherchesov’s side before they were dealt a dose of reality in a 3-0 loss to Uruguay.

Dismissed as no-hopers little over a fortnight ago, Russia will try to get back onboard a wave of national euphoria and pull off what striker Artem Dzyuba called a “minor miracle”.

They make their first WC knockout stage appearance in the post-Soviet era as the ultimate underdogs. While Russia arrived at the finals winless in eight months before finding some badly-needed form, one of their better results in that period came in a 3-3 draw with Spain last November.

“Spain plays the same style (Tiki-taka- a style of play characterized by short passing and movement) as in previous years,” said Sergei Ignashevich the 38-year-old defender. 

“They play very high leaving spaces that a counter-attacking team can use. This is probably their only weak spot if they have any.” 

Russia will return to the Luzhniki Stadium, having played their opening match at the iconic venue, and will lean on fervent support to go in search of a famous win. Midfielder Alan Dzagoev has rejoined the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury, but Igor Smolnikov is suspended following his red card against Uruguay.