The 2018 World Cup got underway in grand style on Thursday with tournament hosts Russia cruising to a 5-0 win over Saudi Arabia at the Luzhniki Stadium to take the early lead in Group A.
Denis Cheryshev was the star performer hitting the back of the net twice after Iury Gazinsky scored the first goal of Russia 2018 with a firmly-placed header in the 12th minute.
Cheryshev, who came on as a substitute to replace the injured Alan Dzagoev – scored the second in the 43rd to double Russia’s lead heading into the break.
Artem Dzyuba then made it 3-0 in the 71st minute after just being introduced before Cheryshev’s stunner (90+1’) and Aleksandr Golovin’s free kick (90+4’) sealed the victory.
Stanislav Cherchesov’s side now lead the table on 3 points with a healthy goal difference.
Match day one in Group A comes to a close on Friday with Egypt facing South American champions Uruguay.
Play in Group B also kicks off on Friday with Morocco opposing Iran and Euro 2016 winner Portugal facing Iberian neighbours Spain.
Singer Robbie Williams had earlier performed during a colourful opening ceremony before the match, marking the start of event that will see 64 games played at 12 venues over the next month.
MOSCOW, RUSSIA – JUNE 14: British pop star Robbie Williams performs prior to the Group A match between Russia and Saudi Arabia at Luzhniki Stadium on June 14, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Williams went through several of his biggest hits in front of a largely appreciative crowd of 78,011 that featured football fans from all over the world as well as a large Russian contingent.
A lengthy address from Russian president Vladimir Putin was followed by a short speech from Fifa president Gianni Infantino.