FIFA World Cup 2018: 5 lowest ranked teams and their respective key players

#1 Russia

Russia have a lot riding on them as hosts

Rank: 70

Key Player: Igor Akinfeev

Ironically, host nation Russia are also the lowest ranked side in the tournament. The Saudis held the unwanted distinction until the start of this month, but have bequeathed the same to Russia following the new rankings.

Never a glamorous side nor an elite one, there are premonitions about Russia’s early exit from the competition. Uruguay and Egypt are touted to progress from Group A, while their showings in the Confederations Cup last year on home soil was an underwhelming affair too.

The only aspect where Russia have the odds stacked in their favour, is joining South Africa as the only other host nation to go out in the first round.

Had the World Cup been played elsewhere, the expectations would’ve been as low as they’ve always been. But being hosts to a tournament like this comes with its own peril. Russia are experiencing it. They’re at the fans’ and media’s cynosure, much like the top shouts in the tournament.

Akinfeev will be crucial in stopping attacks

Igor Akinfeev will be captaining the Russian side and also brings tremendous experience in a relatively young side. The 32-year has been a part of the national set-up since 2004, but this would be only his second World Cup.

The CSKA Moscow shotstopper played every minute of the 2017/18 season, and in 28 appearances in the league, he kept 18 cleansheets - highest in the division. Akinfeev has made some excellent reflexes while his long range passing means he can instigate an attack too. What’s more, he also maintains almost 30% success while stopping penalties.

Russia do not boast a great defensive line, but Akinfeev’s presence brings a sense of assurance and his experience would count while going against the likes of Suarez, Cavani, Salah etc.