Mike a danger in Box

Hosts Russia got their trophy bid off to flier with a 2- 0 win over New Zealand.

Stanislav Cherchesov’s side took the lead on the half hour when Michael Boxall put through his own net.

The All Whites, who had former Scotland Under-21 cap Michael McGlinchey in midfield, fell further behind in the 69th minute – and hapless Boxall was involved once again.

The defender miskicked an attempted clearance and Fedor Smolov stabbed the ball into an open net.

In today’s other Group A match Cristiano Ronaldo will lead Portugal into battle with Mexico despite facing tax fraud accusations.

And team- mate Andre Silva claims the Real Madrid superstar won’t let the offfield problems affect him.

He insisted: “Ronaldo is motivated and is taking the competition very seriously.

“He is totally dedicated to training and thinking about this game.”

Mexico forward Raul Jimenez is sure his teammates can keep Ronaldo quiet. He said: “He’s a great player but we are a great side too. We can stop him.

“It doesn’t matter what your name is or the league you play in – we are all in this together.”

Group B kicks off tonight when Cameroon face Chile while Australia take on Germany tomorrow.