After months of anticipation, World Cup 2018 finally gets underway on Thursday as hosts Russia take on Saudi Arabia at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.
Little is expected of Russia at the tournament, but their best chance of qualifying for the knockout stage involves beating a nation making their first World Cup appearance since 2006.
Saudi Arabia enter the competition led by their third coach in less than a year, and know only a positive result against Russia will give them hope of being competitive in a wide open Group A.
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Live Updates
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What time is kick-off?
Russia vs Saudi Arabia kicks off at 4pm.
Where can I watch it?
The game will be broadcast live on ITV. Coverage begins with the opening ceremony at 2:30pm.
Odds:
Russia: 7/15
Saudi Arabia: 10/1
Draw: 37/10
Prediction:
Russia 1-0 Saudi Arabia: The hosts will get the positive start they so desperately want, but it won’t be easy.
