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The Last Word With Matt Cooper

Russia's Surprisingly Good Start To The World Cup

Russia have made the best possible start to their World Cup campaign, with two wins from two securin...
TodayFM
TodayFM

6:35 PM - 21 Jun 2018



The Last Word With Matt Cooper

Russia's Surprisingly Good Start To The World Cup

TodayFM
TodayFM

6:35 PM - 21 Jun 2018

Listen to this episode



Russia have made the best possible start to their World Cup campaign, with two wins from two securing them a place in the last 16.

The hosts are the lowest-ranked team in the tournament and were not expected to do well, but their 5-0 opening win against Saudi Arabia surprised many people.

But are they really that good, or have they just been lucky?

Freelance sports journalist Ewan MacKenna says he has "serious questions" around the Russians.

"This is a country that up until a couple of years ago was involved in a state-sponsored doping regime."

Russia-based journalist Bryan MacDonald agrees that it's plausible, but thinks that other teams at the World Cup could also be involved in something of that nature.

They also discussed Ireland's chances of hosting the 2030 World Cup, following comments made by Sepp Blatter.

To catch the full chat press the play button on the image on the top of the screen


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