World Cup 2018, Spain vs Russia: 5 key battles that can decide the outcome of the game

#2 Aleksandr Golovin vs Sergio Busquets

Golovin has been a revelation in midfield

Russia’s poster boy for the World Cup, Aleksandr Golovin exploded into the international stage with a scintillating performance in the inaugural game of the tournament against Saudi Arabia. The CSKA Moscow midfield certainly looked the part in the win against Egypt as well but having already secured qualification to the pre-quarters, Stanislav Cherchesov decide to rest him ahead of their loss to Uruguay.

However, the midfielder is expected to be one of the first names on the team sheet for the hosts as they prepare to battle it out with Spain to keep their World Cup hopes alive. Golovin is expected to operate centrally, like he so often does, and will probably lock-horns with Sergio Busquets in his bid to try and create something for his side.

Busquets, who is considered as one of the very best players in his position, is an expert in breaking down play and winning the ball back from his opponents. This will prove to be an intriguing battle as both players are key to their team’s chances of progressing to the last eight of the competition.

Golovin has reportedly sparked interest from a number of Premier League clubs including the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea to name a few and it is safe to say that all eyes will be on the youngster as he prepares for his biggest test yet.