Russia couldn’t have wished for a better start as hosts of the 2018 FIFA World Cup following the 5-0 thrashing of Saudi Arabia in the opening match at the tournament.

The Asians started as the brighter of the two sides but Russia seized control with the opening goal from Yuri Gazinski via a 12th minute header before first half substitute Denis Cheryshev added a second strike just before the halftime interval.

Another substitute Artem Dzyuba netted a third goal midway into the second half just after coming on before Cheryshev added his brace with a stunning strike in the closing stages to put Russia 4-0 up.

The impressive Aleksandr Golovin scored a very good freekick in added time to seal the three points for his side in grand style in what was a Group A clash.

The win ends Russia’s five-match winless run at the World Cup as they top their group ahead of Friday’s match between Uruguay and Egypt.

The hosts will face the aforementioned Africans in their second game in six days’ time while Saudi Arabia will attempt to resurrect their World Cup campaign against former winners Uruguay.