The bus is ready
Cherchesov changes his formation from 4-3-1-2, 4-2-3-1, 5-2-2-1 and 5-3-1-1, depending on the opponents’ strength and style. “The bus” is always there ready to be parked, like it was in the 1-1 World Cup last 16 clash with Spain, eventually won on penalties. If Cherchesov does go with a back five, the starting wingbacks will likely be defenders by trade (Fernandes, Smolnikov, Karavayev or Zhirkov) rather than traditional wingers who are more comfortable going forward than defending – emphasising the coach’s vigilant approach.
Young talents in midfield can certainly make a difference, but Cherchesov is often too cautious to fully rely on them, even though playmakers Aleksei Miranchuk and Golovin now have good experience playing in Europe. Three holding players is often his default set-up.
Lone striker Dzyuba is more likely to be joined by some of the attacking midfielders rather than another striker. Valencia’s Denis Cheryshev, who was so good alongside Dzyuba three years ago at the World Cup, is too injury-prone to be considered a candidate this time.