The Official - Russia 2018

THE OFFICIAL Volume 2 April 23, 2018 SEE OUR WORLD CUP POSTER INSIDE!

2 THE OFFICIAL Friday, April 27, 2018

Russia: Coach: Stanislav Cherchesov Apperances: 11(first in1958) Best Result: Fourth Place (1966) Rank:

Saudi Arabia: Coach: Juan Antonio Pizzi Appearances: 5 (first in 1994) Best result: Round of 16 (1994) Rank: 70 (12 April 2018)

Like a lot eastern European states, Russia was once a part of a larger single political entity. From 1930 to 1990 they were a part of the Soviet Union.

As a member state they had won a European Championship and finished fourth in a World Cup. They are still yet to get out of the group as an independent nation.

The hosts qualify automatically so Russia had no real competitive preparation coming into the tournament. That won’t however, be a satisfactory excuse should the fail to advance through this group. this likes of captain Igor Akinfeev, verterans Yuri Zhirkov and Aleksandr Samedov are expected steady the ship while Denis Cheryshev and Alan Dzagoev will try to remind the world just how good they actually are.

There isn’t alot known of this Saudi team mostly because the majority of their players ply their trade domestically. They have managed to get out of their group once before in USA ‘94 beating both Belgium and Morocco before losing in the round of 16.

As is often the case with smaller and less successful nations, they have a few veterans in their ranks to take the reins. Defender Osama Hawsawi and midfielder Taisir Al-Jassim are those veterans with 258 caps between them. Yahya Al Shehri, a 27-yearold winger, has been at the centre of the national team’s rejuvenation since making his debut as a teenager.

Egypt: Coach: Hector Cuper Appearances​: 3 (first in 1934) Best Result: 13th Rank: 46 (12 April 2018)

: Coach: Oscar Tabarez Appearances: 13 (first in 1930) Best result: Champions (1930, 1950) Rank: 17 (12 April 2018)

Egypt was the first African team to qualify for Russia 2018 (along with Nigeria). The Pharaohs don’t have much of a history in the competition.

With their first appearance coming in the second world cup back in ‘34, they next featured in the 1990’s edition; failing to win in 4 attempts.

These days they are sure to play at least 3 games.

With stout defending​from the likes of Ahmed Hegazi and protection​and creativity from El Neny and co. they may be able to stave off defeat this time round. That would depend heavily on star forward, Mohammed Salah. The Liverpool man has been in sterling form all season. Having notched a team high 5 goals in qualifying​, he and Eygpt will hope this good form continues in the summer.

La Celeste (The Sky Blue) have been to twelve previous world cups and only on two occasions failed to get out of their group. Also on two occasions they’ve gone all the way; and are one of the eight nations to have lift the world cup. In fact, the South Americans are the first to have done so and were the first hosts of the tournament in 1930.

Skipper, Diego Godin would be expected to marshal the defense as per usual, while Christian Rodriguez would provide the creative spark from midfield. The lethal pairing of Edison Cavani and record scorer, Luis Suarez will hope to be more effective than in Brazil 2014

Friday, April 27, 2018 THE OFFICIAL 3

Iran: Coach: Carlos Queiroz Appearance: 5 (first in 1978) Best result: Group Stage Rank: 36 (12 April 2018)

Morroco: Coach: Hervé Renard Appearances: 5 (first in 1950) Best Result: Round of 16 (1980) Rank: 42 (12 April 2018)

Unfortunately, Iran stands out more for their (in) famous political volatility and military strugles over the years. Even so, they were the second team to qualify for the world cup this year. They have only managed a single win in their previous 4 appearances though.

With 11 goals in the qualifications rounds (7 in round 2, 4 in round 3); Sardar Azmoun is being touted as beacon of hope for the Iranains. What the 23 year old striker lacks in experience, he makes up with in lethality. He has 23 goals in just 31 games for the senior team and an even more impressive youth record. It is interesting to see how the Rubin Kazan forward will handle a World Cup in familiar territory.

Morocco have managed to advance through the group, just the once back in 1986. Take nothing away from that feat though; they were the first African nation to have done it. They actually won their group in doing so (another first), topping Portugal, Poland and England.

It’s been 20 years since the Lions of the Atlas have appeared in a World Cup. With captain Medhi Benatia suring up the defence, the likes of Hakim Ziyech and Sofiane Boufal will look to provide the penetration and creativity to create opportunities at the other end. Ayoub El Kaabi has 10 goals from his 8 caps thus far, in addition to a good domestic season; the young forward will look to advertise himself to the wider world and propel Morocco in the process.

: Coach: Ferdinand Santos Appearances: 7 (first in 1966) Best result: Third place (1966) Rank: 4

Spain: Coach: Julen Lopetegui Appearances: 10 (first in1934) Best result: Champions (2010) Rank: 8

Portugal is one of those teams that are as famous for the legendary players that were born in or represented them, as they are for the fact that they still haven’t won the World Cup. In 7 attempts the best they have managed is a 3rd place finish in their first tournament. They did come close to emulating that in Germany 2006.

As reigning European champs they finally have international winning experience in the squad and they’ll be banking on that in Russia. With talismanic captain Cristiano Ronaldo still leading the way, the hope for Portugal is that they can adequately support their main man.

Despite Spain having a well documented footballing history and one of the best leagues in the world, they have only one World Cup to their name. That being said between 2008 and 2012 they built an imperious dynasty that, until the last World Cup, looked unbeatable.

Brazil 2014 will live long in the memory of Spanish fans but not for good reason. They have since gotten back up to the standard expected of them. With a nation of stars to choose from Spain need only to avoid a repeat of their last outing. As the outside favourites, La Roja pose a real threat to the other odds-on favourites. They can afford to dream.

4 THE OFFICIAL Friday, April 27, 2018

: Coach: Bert van Marwijk Apperances: 5 (first in 1974) Best Result: Round of 16 (2006) Rank: 40

: Coach: Åge Hareide Apperances: 5 (first in 1986) Best Result: Quarterfinals (1998) Rank: 12

The Socceroos have an inetersting reputation as a hard-to-beat yet beatable team. When up against the elite nations they look vulnerable but against anyone else, they are capbale. As such their unfavourable track record at the World Cup is unflaterring to their performances.

The defence lacks vast experience but is in the prime of their careers. Meanwhile, captain Mile Jedinak, with the experience he has, partnered with Aaron Mooy should provide quality in the middle of the park. Austalian legend Tim Cahill doesn’t know when to quit at 105 caps, and 50 goals, he’ll keep going for as long as possible.

Maybe Australia can turn performance into reulsts and get out of this group.

The Danes don’t have much of a World Cup pedigree despite finishing 3rd, 4th and as Champions (1992) in the Euros. They have also produced some of the most iconic players throughout their history; brothers Michael and Brian Laudrup and Peter Schmeichel, to name a few; none had inspired in the World Cup unfortunately.

This Danish team has one of the best playmakers in the world in Christian Eriksen; son of the aforementioned Peter Schmeichel - Kasper between the sticks, captain Simon Kjær in defence and (Lord) Nicklas Bendtner leading the line. In a group of one favourite and three also-rans, The Danish Dynamite might spark again.

France: Coach: Didier Deschamps Apperances: 15 (first in 1939) Best Result: Champions (1998) Rank: 7

Peru: Coach:Ricardo Gareca Apperances: 4 (first in1930) Best Result: Quarterfinals (1970) Rank: 11

Les Blues won the cup once, 20 years ago as the host nation. They were beaten finalists in 2006 as well. The France squad has never been void of quality; but the current crop of players stand ready to replace Zinadine Zidane, Theiry Henry and co. as the new golden generation.

Captain Hugo Lloris should retain his place as number one and his defensive line could feature any of; Samuel Umitti, Laurent Koscielny, Benjamin Mendy or Raphaël Varane. And a glut of world class midfeilders including; Paul Pogba, Blaise Matuidi, and N’Golo Kante. Even more impressive is their front line; Antoine Greizmann, Olivier Giroud, Anthony Martial, Kylian Mbappe & Ousmane Dembele. Simply put, they are major contenders for the cup this year.

Peru has the peculiar distinction of having faced the eventual champions of every World Cup they featured in; Uruguay, Brazil, Argentina and Italy.

This doesn’t say much for the Peruvians, but perhaps a good omen for France? Peru have been missing since the 1982 tournament.

Los Incas don’t have much European campaigners and those who are, are generally young and/or inexperienced. With the exception of star man Jefferson Farfan, who excelled in Germany before finding his way to Russia with Lokomotiv Moscow. He may be able to lead his team with his with experience, goals and familiarity with his surroundings.

Friday, April 27, 2018 THE OFFICIAL 5

Argentina: Coach: Jorge Sampaoli Apperances: 17 (first in1930) Best Result: Champs (1978, 1986) Rank: 5

Croatia: Coach: Zlatko Dalic Apperances: 5 (first in1998) Best Result: Third place (1998) Rank: 18

Last tournament’s beaten finalists still await their third World Cup. In fact, the Argentines still wait for a major honour with Linonel Messi in the lineup. Arguably the greatest player in the world, Messi hasn’t been able drag the South Americans over the line; but not for a lack of trying. Messi and Argentina lost 3 finals in as many years sandwiching the World Cup disappointment.

This year is not much different with expectation as high as ever given the world-class stars in the squad. Defence has always been their Achilles heel but they have Nicolas Otamendi coming off a title winning season and a returning Marcos Rojo plus the dependability of Javier Mascherano. The midfield and front line need no introduction.

The Croatians as an independent nation are set to featured in their fifth World Cup in 10 years.

Their best result comes in their first appearance in 1998 when they were beaten by hosts and eventual Champions France 2-1 in the semifinals. There’s no shame in that.

Croatia these years have a different opinion on success. With a respectable squad littered with superstars and talented players from top teams across Europe, Croatia are still trying to capitalize on this generation of players. Vedran Ćorluka, Dejan Lovren, Luka Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, Ivan Rakitić (captain), Ivan Perišić, Mario Mandžukić, Nikola Kalinić, Marko Pjaca are just some of the household names that hail from Croatia.

Iceland: Coach: Heimir Hallgrimsson Apperances: 1 (first in 2018) Rank: 22

Nigeria: Coach: Gernot Rohr Apperances: 6 (first in 1994) Best Result: Round of 16 (1994, 1998, 2014) Rank: 47 The Super Eagles seem to have a limit and it is the Round of 16. Of their five previous entries they have gotten out of the group on three occasions; but each time, they lose the very next game.

Interestingly, they have also been drawn in a group with Argentina on 4 out of 5 occasions; make that 5 of 6 this year.

Nigeria is one of the most accomplished team in Africa - as well with team success as individual native players who go on to successful careers.

Some of these distinguished players include captain John Obi Mikel, Wilfred Ndidi, Ahmed Musa, Victor Moses and young up-and-comers Alex Iwobi and Kelechi Iheanacho.

Having stolen our hearts at Euros 2016 the Icelanders have now made it to their first World Cup. And if their first World Cup is anything like their first European Championships, they should be a treat. Strákarnir okkar (Our Boys) is what locals call their national team; but after the first post-match Viking-clap celebration... the world was on their side.

They got as far as the quarterfinals at Euros via draws with Hungary and eventual champions Portugal and famous wins over Austria and England. They were soundly beaten by France but still had impressed in their first international tournament. Let’s see how they handle Russia 2018 two years later.

6 THE OFFICIAL Friday, April 27, 2018

: Coach: Tite Apperances: Every edition Best Result: Champs (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002) Rank: 2 The ever-present Seleção was been to all the World Cup tournaments, the only team with that record, and has the most World Cups with 5 stars on their crest. A star is representative of the number of World Cups won by that team. While the 5 stars make a balanced line, designers and Brazilians alike would love to figure out a way of incorporating a sixth star.

Having missed the opportunity to add to their collection in front of home support in 2014, they’ll be eager to right their wrongs in Russia.

Neymar and co. will hope to repay Germany for their embarrassment four years ago. But at the same time, won’t be amiss if they can win without facing the reigning champs.

Serbia: Coach: Mladen Krstajić Apperances: 12 (first in 1930) Best Result: Third place (1930) Rank: 35 The Serbs made their World Cup debut in the inaugural competition in 1930 but at that time they were a part of the now defunct Kingdom of Yugoslavia. They had another 10 appearances as part of one coalition or another. By 2010 they represented an independent Serbia in South Africa. There best performance comes from their first appearance. They will look to make waves of their own in Russia.

Serbia boast some top quality players plying their trade in major European leagues. The likes of Branislav Ivanović, Aleksandar Kolarov, Nemanja Matić, Sergej Milinković-Savić, Dušan Tadić; among others. They have enough talent to improve on their 2010 showing.

: Coach: Óscar Ramírez Apperances: 5 (first in 1990) Best Result: Quarterfinals (2014) Rank: 25 Los Ticos were one of the surprise pacakages of the 2014 World Cup, punching well aboove their weight knocking out contenders Italy and England. They went on to beat Greece and drew 0-0 with Netherlands after extra time; the game then went to penalties, which they lost 4 -3. Still an admirable performance; their best to date.

The limit of expectations should significantly be lowered by reality this time around. Making it out of this group would be a feat by itself. While most of that squad would have survived til now, they are still 4 years older, and in some cases age has been a hamper. For others it’s a change in fortunes. Four years is a very long time in football.

: Coach: Vladimir Petković Apperances: 10 (first in 1934) Best Result: Quarterfinals (1934, 1938, 1954) Rank: 6 The Rossocrociati (Red Crusaders) have qualified for their fourth consecutive World Cup. They managed quarterfinal finishes in second and third installments of the competition as well as 1954 when they were hosts. They have yet to emulate that achievement since then unfortunately. They have teetered between group stage exits and Round of 16 knockouts.

This will be a tricky group for the Swiss. They will need to prove that the sum of the parts are not greater than the whole. Lead by captain Stephan Lichtsteiner in defence, Granit Xhaka and Xherdan Shaqiri in midfield, and Haris Seferović up top they might make Round of 16 again at least.

Friday, April 27, 2018 THE OFFICIAL 7

Germany: Coach: Joachim Löw Apperances: 18 (1934) Best Result: Champions (1954, 1974, 1990, 2014) Rank:1

Mexico: Coach: Juan Carlos Osorio Apperances: 16 (first in 1930) Best Result: Quarterfinals (1970, 1986) Rank: 15

Second, possibly, only to Brazil in World Cup pedigree; the Germans have an impressive record in the tournament. That includes 4 titles, 4 runners-up finishes and a further 4 third place finishes.

That accounts for 12 of their 18 appearances.

As reigning Champs, Die Mannschaft go into Russia well poised to do it again. Few can match their ambition or ability to go all the way. Bulk of the squad remains from 2014 with the notable exceptions​being captain Philip Lahm and golden boy Bastian schweinsteiger. The Germans still possess one of the strongest teams then. The only question mark to all this is if Marco Reus can stay fit long enough to finally represent his country at a major tournament.

By far and away the best team in the CONCACAF region, the Mexicans have been regulars at the world cup since 1994, only six countries can make such a claim. What’s more, only they, Brazil and Germany have managed to get out of their group at least in all of those. They’re also among elite company as one of 8 teams to have one any two of the World Cup, Confederations Cup and Summer Olympics..

El Tri really do fit in among the big boys and can expect to get out of their group. The usual suspects should be on hand to help in that plight, that is captain Andrés Guardado , Miguel Layun, Javier Hernandez and the Dos Santos brothers.

: Coach: Shin Tae-yong Apperances: 10 (first in 1954) Best Result: Fourth (2002) Rank: 61

Sweden: Coach: Janne Andersson Apperances: 12 (first in 1934) Best Result:Runners-up (1958) Rank: 23

Despite their relative anonymity, Korea Republic can proudly proclaim to be the most successful team in Asia. The Reds have qualified for nine consecutive World Cups and are to date the only Asian team to reach the semifinals of the tournament. That feat was accomplished in front of home support when they co-hosted with Japan in 2002.

Captain Ki Sung-yueng (who is just 1 away from a century of caps) and Son Heung-min, both playing​in the English Premier​League, are the most famous of the squad mostly based in Asian leagues. They have do however, have a slew of players with a considerable number of caps to call upon.

In a group with powerhouse Germany, and the most successful teams in their respective confederations, Sweden appears an underwhelming apple among oranges. But in fact Sweden were beaten finalists in 1958 and have been to the semifinals on 3 occasions, twice finishing third. That’s more prestigious finishes than the rest; with the exception of Germany of course.

The squad is fairly mid-ranged with a few veterans in captains Andreas Granqvist and Sebastian Larsson. They may yet be accompanied by the greatest of all their veterans; Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Beyond them, the younger​generation is lead by Victor Lindelof, Emil Forsberg and John Guidetti.

8 THE OFFICIAL Friday, April 27, 2018

: Coach: Roberto Martinez Apperances: 13 (first in 1930) Best Result: Fourth (1986) Rank: 3

England: Coach: Gareth Southgate Apperances: 15 (first in 1950) Best Result: Champions (1966) Rank: 13

The Belgians may be enjoying a golden period with the current crop of players but their best finish came in Mexico ‘86 when they finished fourth. Last time out, they were beaten narrowly

by Argentina in the quarterfinals. The Red devils, as they are called, are tipped to better that this year.

This year though the red devils might actually be the dark horses instead. Quite aside from their black second kit, Belgium have the star quality to achieve something great for their fans. Protected Vincent Kompany and Jan Vertoghen, sparked by Eden Hazard and Kevin De Bruyne and lead up front by Romelu Lukaku; they have the manpower, but now it’s about translating that into performances.

England’s World Cup is a complex concept to say the least. They would be the first to tell you they have the best domestic league in the world, and a collection of instantly recognizable stars, yet they only have the one star - for their only World Cup triumph in 1966 on home soil. The problem is; The Three Lions inflate their own egos through their local media and it’s that much more painful when they don’t do as sensationalized.

Going into Russia, England, as ever, swept the qualifiers and (again) as ever, have a trove of riches to call upon. Will it be as ever disappointing?

A quarterfinals spot should be bare minimum for this England squad. With record goalscorer Wayne Rooney retiring last year it’s on heir apparent Marcus Rashford and co. to get it done.

Panama: Coach: Hernan Dario Gomez Apperances: 1 (first in 2018) Rank: 55

Tunisia: Coach: Nabil Maaloul Apperances: 5 (first in 1978) Best Result: Group stage Rank:14

Prior to 1978, Los Canaleros hadn’t even entered World Cup qualifying and thereafter failed to qualify. Their inability to qualify was underlined by their jubilation following their 2-1 defeat of Costa Rica. The following day, having returned home from Costa Rica, they paraded in the streets all across the country in celebration of the momentous occasion. That day was even declared a new national holiday.

While their players will mostly be recognized by fans of Major League Soccer (MLS) in the U.S., and those across the South American leagues; they do have a contingent of players with a wealth of experience for the national team. It remains to be seen how they will do in their first World Cup.

The Eagles of Carthage were part of France from 1930 to 1954. And either failed to qualify or did not enter qualification until 1978 when they made their first appearance. In five attempts, they have failed to progress beyond the group stages. They did however, make history by being the first African team to win a game at the World Cup. They beat Mexico 3-1 in their first ever World Cup match.

Friday, April 27, 2018 THE OFFICIAL 9

Colombia: Coach: Jose Pekerman Apperances: 6 (first in 1962) Best Result: Quarterfinals (2014) Rank: 16

: Coach: Akira Nishino Apperances: 6 (first in 1998) Best Result: Round of 16 (2002, 2010) Rank: 60

Along with Costa Rica, Colombia was the darling the 2014 World Cup. From the flamboyant playing style to the elaborate dance numbers in celebration of each goal to that James Rodriguez goal. It stands to reason then that they achieved their best finish at that World Cup. They also picked up the FIFA Fair Play award for that competition.

At this summer’s tournament the bulk of players from Brazil 2014 are still available included key players David Ospina, Christian Zapata, Juan Cuadrado and Golden Boot winner James Rodriguez - whose influence was so great that he was thought to be more deserving of the Golden Ball that Lionel Messi. Colombia will also have Ramadal Falcao back from missing the last World Cup through injury.

Japan’s first World Cup may have been just 20 years ago in 1998 but they have been to every tournament since. The Samurai Blue are a dominant force in the far east but have only managed to get pass the group stages on two occassions.

The Japs have experience to call upon, with players dotting the various European leagues they have some better known players in addition to their local based ones. The likes Yūto Nagatomo from Inter Milan, Keisuke Honda now with Pachuca (formerly of AC Milan), Shinji Kagawa of Borrussia Dortmund and Shinji Okazaki who sits level 4th (110) on the all-time appearances list and 3rd on the top scorers list with 50 goals.

: Coach: Adam Nawalka Apperances: 8 (1938) Best Result: Third (1974, 1982) Rank: 10

: Coach: Aliou Cisse Apperances: 2 (first in 2002) Best Result: Quarterfinals (2002) Rank: 28

Poland’s history is greater than their current form as they had an epic team in the 70’s that won the 1972 Olympic Gold medal in Germany, and were beaten by in the same country in ‘74 when the hosts marched to second World Cup title. They did finish third by beating Brazil.

Third place may be a long shot this year but they do have good squad of players. In goal they have a choice of Łukasz Fabiański or Wojciech Szczęsny.

The defence is propped up by Kamil Glik, Łukasz Piszczek and others. The midfield features Grzegorz Krychowiak, Piotr Zieliński and Jakub “Kuba” Błaszczykowski. And the front line is lead by one of the 3 best strikers in the world Robert Lewandowski and partnered by Arkadiusz Milik.

The Lions of Teranga made one World Cup appearnce in South Korea/Japan 2002 where their dream debut ended with a quarterfinal finish.

They shocked the world when they beat France in the tournament’s very first match. Following draws with Denmark and a spectular 3-3 with Uruguay they set up a run famous run to quarters before losing to Turkey.

In a group with teams that don’t stand out as clear favourites they can dream of a repeat. With Kalidou Koulibaly in defence, Cheikhou Kouyaté and Idrissa Gueye in the middle and Sadio Mané up front; they have quality to challenge for second roud spot at least.

12 THE OFFICIAL Friday, April 27, 2018

OTKRITE ARENA/ SPARTAK STADIUM

Games:

Location: Moscow

June 16, 2018 - Argentina v Iceland (Group D)

Capacity: 45,360

June 19, 2018 - Poland v Senegal (Group H)

Field: 105 x 68m

June 23, 2018 - Belgium v Tunisia (Group G)

Opened: 5 September 2014

June 27, 2018 - Serbia v Brazil (Group E)

Tennant: FC Spartak Moscow, Russian National team

July 3, 2018 - Winner Group H v Runner-up Group G (Round of 16)

Friday, April 27, 2018 THE OFFICIAL 13

KRESTOVSKY STADIUM/SAINT-PETERSBURG STADIUM

Games:

Location: Saint Petersburg

June 15, 2018 - Morocco v Iran (Group B) June 19, 2018 - Russia v Egypt (Group A) June 22, 2018 - Brazil v Costa Rica (Group E) June 26, 2018 - Nigeria v Argentina (Group D)

Capacity: 67,000 Field: 105 x 68m Opened: 23 April 2017 Tennant: FC Zenit Saint Petersburg

July 3, 2018 - Winner Group F v Runner-up Group E (Round of 16) July 10, 2018 - Winner Match 57 v Winner Match 58 (Semifinal) July 14, 2018 - Loser Match 61 v Loser Match 62 (3rd Place)

14 THE OFFICIAL Friday, April 27, 2018

KALININGRAD STADIUM

Games:

Location: Moscow

June 16, 2018 - Croatia v Nigeria (Group D)

Capacity: 35,212

June 22, 2018 - Serbia v Switzerland (Group E)

Field: 105 x 68m

June 25, 2018 - Spain v Morocco (Group B)

Opened: 2018

June 27, 2018 - England v Belgium (Group G)

Tennant: FC Baltika Kaliningrad

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KAZAN ARENA

Games:

Location: Kazan

June 16, 2018 - France v Austalie (Group C) June 20, 2018 - Iran v Spain (Group B)

Capacity: 45,379 Field: 105 x 68m Opened: July 6, 2013 Tennant: FC Rubin Kazan

June 24, 2018 - Poland v Colombia (Group H) June 27, 2018 - South Korea v Germany (Group F) June 30, 2018 - Winner Group C v Runner-up Group D (Round of 16) July 6, 2018 - Winner Match 53 v Winner Match 54 (Quarterfinals)

16 THE OFFICIAL Friday, April 27, 2018

Luzhniki Stadium

Games:

Location: Moscow

June 14, 2018 - Russia v Saudi Arabia (Group A) June 17, 2018 - Germany v Mexico (Group F)

Capacity: 81,000 Field: 105 x 68m Opened: 31 July 1956 Tennant: Russian National team

June 20, 2018 - Portugal v Morocco (Group B) June 27, 2018 - Denmark v France (Group C) July 3, 2018 - Winner Group B v Runner-up Group A (Round of 16) July 11, 2018- Winner Match 59 v Winner Match 60 (Semifinal) July 15, 2018 - FINAL

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NIZHNY NOVGOROD STADIUM

Games:

Location: Nizhny Novgorod

June 18, 2018 - Sweden v Korea Republic (Group F)

Capacity: 44,899

June 21, 2018 - Argentina v Croatia (Group D)

Field: 105 x 68m

June 24, 2018 - England v Panama (Group G) June 27, 2018 - Switzerland v Costa Rica (Group E)

Opened: 2018 (under construction) Tennant: FC Olimpiyets Nizhny Novgorod

July 1, 2018 - Winner Group H v Runner-up Group G (Round of 16) July 6, 2018 - Winner Match 49 v Winner Match 50 (Quarterfinal)

18 THE OFFICIAL Friday, April 27, 2018

SAMARA ARENA/ COSMOS ARENA

Games:

Location: Samara

June 17, 2018 - Costa Rica v Serbia(Group E) June 21, 2018 - Denmark v Australia (Group C)

Capacity: 44,918 Field: 105 x 68m Opened: 2018 (under construction) Tennant: Krylia Sovetov

June 25, 2018 - Uruguay v Russia (Group A) June 28, 2018 - Senegal v Colombia (Group H) July 3, 2018 - Winner Group E v Runner-up Group F (Round of 16) July 7, 2018 - Match 55 v Winner Match 56 (Quarterfinals)

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VOLGOGRAD ARENA

Games:

Location: Volgograd

June 18, 2018 - Tunisia v England (Group G)

Capacity: 45,568

June 22, 2018 - Nigeria v Iceland (Group D)

Field: 105 x 68m

June 25, 2018 - Saudi Arabia v Egypt (Group A)

Opened: 2018 (under construction)

June 28, 2018 - Japan v Poland (Group H)

Tennant: FC Rotor Volgograd

20 THE OFFICIAL Friday, April 27, 2018

MORDOVIA ARENA

Games:

Location: Saransk

June 16, 2018 - Peru vs Denmark (Group C)

Capacity: 44,442

June 19, 2018 - Colombia vs Japan (Group H)

Field: 105 x 68m

June 25, 2018 -Iran vs Portugal (Group B)

Opened: 2018 (under construction)

June 28, 2018 - Panama vs Tunisia (Group G)

Tennant: FC Mordovia Saransk

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ROSTOV ARENA

Games:

Location: Rostov-on-Don

June 17, 2018 - Brazil v Switzerland (Group E) June 20, 2018 - Uruguay v Saudi Arabia (Group A)

Capacity: 45,000 Field: 105 x 68m Opened: 2018 Tennant: FC Rostov

June 23, 2018 - Korea Republic v Mexico (Group F) June 26, 2018 - Iceland v Croatia (Group D) July 2, 2018 - Winner Group G v Runner-up Group H (Round of 16)

22 THE OFFICIAL Friday, April 27, 2018

FISHT OLYMPIC STADIUM

Games:

Location: Sochi

June 15, 2018 - Portugal v Sapin (Group B) June 18, 2018 - Belgium v New Panama (Group G)

Capacity: 47,659 Field: 105 x 68m Opened: 5 September 2014 Tennant: None

June 23, 2018 - Germany vSweden (Group F) June 26, 2018 - Australia v Peru (Group C) June 30, 2018 - Winner Group A v Runner-up Group B (Round of 16) July 7, 2018 - Winner of match 51 v Winner Match 52 (Quarterfinals)

Friday, April 27, 2018 THE OFFICIAL 23

EKATERINBURG ARENA/ CENTRAL STADIUM

Games:

Location: Yekaterinburg

June 15, 2018 - Egypt v Uruguay (Group A)

Capacity: 35,696

June 21, 2018 - France v Peru (Group C)

Field: 105 x 68m

June 24, 2018 - Japan v Senegal (Group H)

Opened: 1957

June 27, 2018 - Mexico v Sweden (Group F)

Tennant: FC Ural Yekaterinburg

THE OFFICAL

Monday, April 23, 2018 Volume #: 02

See You In Russia!

Moscow Awaits!