Defender put faith in VAR for protection

Russia defender Sergei Ignashevich says he is not bothered by potential provocation from World Cup opponents Sergio Ramos and Diego Costa because of the Video Assistant Referee system.

Hosts Russia and Spain clash in the last 16 on Sunday, and some sections of the Russian media have focused on Ramos and Costa ahead of their Moscow meeting.

The Spanish pair are well known for pushing football’s boundaries, with central defender Ramos – who holds the record for the most red cards in LaLiga – blamed for injuring Mohamed Salah during Real Madrid’s Champions League final victory against Liverpool last month.

Asked about Ramos and Costa at a press conference, Ignashevich was quoted as saying, “I think there will be less provocation. Now there is VAR, everyone began to play more accurately.”

Spain, World Cup winners in 2010, remain unbeaten in Russia but did not overly-impress in winning their section.

Fernando Hierro’s side needed a disputed stoppage-time equaliser from substitute Iago Aspas to draw 2-2 with Morocco in their final group game and finish above Portugal.

“They play the same football as in recent years,” Ignashevich said.

“The defenders try to get high, but that leads to free zones and allows counter-attackers to create (dangerous) moments.”