Russia get off to winning start

HOSTS Russia got off to a winning start at the Confederations Cup on Saturday, Fedor Smolov’s secondhalf goal sealing a 2-0 win over New Zealand in St Petersburg in the tournament opener.

Russia went ahead in the first half of the Group A encounter through what was credited as an own goal from New Zealand defender Michael Boxall, and Smolov – top scorer in the Russian league last season – wrapped up the points in the 69th minute.

It was the ideal start for the Russians in a game played at the new Krestovsky Stadium, where President Vladimir Putin and Fifa chief Gianni Infantino both gave speeches before kickoff.

The event offers Russia a chance to showcase its readiness to host next year’s World Cup amid concerns about hooliganism and security.

Russian coach Stanislav Cherchesov said his side was also ready to show what they could do.