World Cup 2018: 3 reasons why Russia won against Spain

#3 A combination of excellent work ethic, fearless and freedom seals a place in QFs

A jubilant Russian dugout

Noted in the group stages for their energy, work ethic and defensive discipline (except vs. Uruguay), every Russian player defended like his life depended on it.

They ran themselves to the ground, intercepted and tackled effectively, and forced Spain to keep going wide by overloading bodies in midfield. From there, given their height and aerial prowess, the incoming threat(s) could be contained and the hosts knew it.

The liberty to experiment with his personnel – with nothing to lose and everything to gain - gave the coach a window of opportunity which he seized, simultaneously also giving them belief by being open with them about his approach.

Their group stage feat meant facing 2010 champions Spain, who were among the favourites to lift the trophy. Needless to say, a vast majority expected them to bow out of the tournament.

This allowed the Russian players to played with a degree of freedom - minus the weight of expectations – and fearlessness, for which they were eventually rewarded with a spot in the last eight.