Confed Cup’s a Smol world

RUSSIA eased to a 2-0 win over New Zealand yesterday in the opening match of the Confederations Cup.

Leeds striker Chris Wood and Ipswich’s Tommy Smith started for the Kiwis.

An own goal from Michael Boxall in the 31st minute got the hosts up and running in St Petersburg.

Sloppy defending by New Zealand allowed Russian forward Fedor Smolov to tap home in the 69th minute to double the lead. The eight-team tournament is a test for Russia before their World Cup.