Bulletproof Spain can teach Russia a lesson

International friendly
Streamed live on bookmakers' websites, 6.45pm Tuesday

World Cup hosts Russia were given a sense of how far behind the game’s superpowers they are when made to look seriously second-best by Argentina on Saturday, and another lesson is on the cards.

The Russians have moved from Moscow to St Petersburg, though a change of venue won’t necessarily ensure a different outcome as the mighty Spain are their opponents.

A better performance is expected from Russia at the Krestovsky Stadium but Spain are unbeaten in 15 matches and have won their last five contests without conceding, the most recent being Saturday’s 5-0 romp past Costa Rica.

They brought in a rookie keeper, Kepa, and young right-back Alvaro Odriozola to take on the Ticos and the changes were seamless.

Jolen Lopetegui’s squad looks formidable and whoever he sends out – he will have been made well aware by a lot of people that the Madrid derby is on Saturday – Spain ought to win.

More Tuesday internationals

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Cherchesov is set to hand a rare start to Lokomotiv Moscow playmaker Aleksey Miranchuk, who is enjoying a sparkling season, and he can help to make the hosts look more of a threat.

But Spain are successfully keeping all sides at bay at the moment and a win to nil for the Iberians looks the best bet.

Recommendation
Spain to win to nil
1pt 17-13 188Bet

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