This is the final game in the group stage’s first round action in World Cup 2014. Both Russia and South Korea have had enough time to acclimatise with the region and churn out strategies based on what have happened so far in the tournament. Still, this is likely to be a low-profile game, as both the teams have more problems to ponder with than plus-points to feel confident about.

Russia-Korea Republic Preview

The biggest blow for Russia is the unavailability of their talismanic skipper Roman Shirokov. He was the heartbeat of the team’s midfield. The good thing for them is that all their players are from Russian domestic league. While some critics ridicule the fact by suggestions that none of them are good enough to play in top European leagues, it will offer the team much needed stability and coherence. They have a reasonably good qualification round, and they are expected to qualify for the second round from a group that also has Belgium and Algeria.

South Korea has a good history in world cups, with the semi final entry in 2002 being their pinnacle. However, it will be a huge surprise if they get past the group stage this time. They were struggling with out-of-form players right through the qualification stage.

Expect Russian to produce a physical game with attacks using long balls and high crosses.

Players

Dmitri Kombarov and Yuri Zhirkov will try to rule the flanks, while the young striker Alexander Kokorin, who is likely to get the nod over veteran Alexander Kerzhakov, will try to reap the rewards.

Korea’s slender hopes lie on two young guns: Kim Shin-wook and Son Heung-Min.

Russia-Korea Republic Prediction

Russia is the clear frontrunner for a win.

Russia 1.85 @ Bet365

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