Tempo Report from Russia: Other Ideal Teams for Russian Citizens
1 July 2018 12:00 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Russia national team is a small team in this 2018 World Cup. In the World Football Federation list, they are ranked 70th, the lowest of the 32 teams participating in the tournament.
They made a surprise by qualifying from the group stage. Sbornaya-the nickname of the Russian national team-has defeated Saudi Arabia 5-0 in the inaugural match and defeated Egypt 3-1. But Russia was defeated 3-0 by Uruguay, one of the strongest teams from South America and holders of two World Cup titles.
The success made a lot of Russians happy. With the previous sluggish performance, Russia never won in seven matches before the World Cup was held. Many local fans are pessimistic about the future of their national team.
However, they remain solid showing support for the Russian national team. Stadium and Fan Fest-the arena for fans to watch together the live match on the big screen-always full every time the Russian team competes.
But there are many Russians who idolize teams from other countries. The achievements, the quality of the players, and the journey of those teams at the World Cup are their criterions.
Mexico is one of the most favored teams by the Russians. In addition to the attractions of the fans that are excited, the Mexican national team considered looking attractive.
"I support Russia, but it is must be admitted that Mexico is better," said Tamila, a neighboring Moscow resident when I stayed a few days in the city. Three of Tamila's friends seem to have the same choice.
Similar opinions are often found in Yekaterinburg. Many of them support Mexico, especially after it defeated a team of the same group as well as defending champions, Germany, 1-0. Mexico secured a ticket to the last 16 after defeating South Korea.
Mexico's position remains safe despite being defeated 3-0 by Sweden in the last match in Yekaterinburg. Precisely Germany, that became the superior team, was eliminated even though they defeated South Korea 2-1.
Other idolized teams are including Brazil, Spain and Portugal. Somewhat dragged in the group stage, the two teams also passed the group stage. Despite idolizing the foreign teams, Russian citizens remain compact supporting their national team.
Russia already has the pride to host the World Cup. But hopefully, the last team's rank can be hoisted up further.
GABRIEL WAHYU TITIYOGA
