Euro 2012 Preview: Russia

By Liam Apicella, Features Editor | 04 June 2012

Russia reached the semi-finals of the European Championships last time out. Here, Sports Mole assesses their chances of repeating that feat.

Russia are one of those countries that most nations would have been keen to avoid in this summer's tournament.

While not regarded by many as a genuine contender to be victorious at the tournament, the Russians are seen as a team that are difficult to break down - a point backed up by the fact that they have only conceded one goal in their last eight outings.

The Reds will be looking to make up for missed time on the international scene after failing to qualify for the World Cup in 2010.

Group: A

Manager: Dick Advocaat - The 64-year-old has won numerous league titles in Holland, Scotland and Russia. Also has previous experience at international level with the Netherlands and South Korea.

Players to watch:

Alan Dzagoev: Despite being just 21 years old, Dzagoev has a wealth of experience in the Champions League. He is seen by many as Russia's main creative threat this summer.

Igor Akinfeev: As well as having a stubborn defence, the Russian team also have Akinfeev between the posts. The 26-year-old is regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in world football.

Andrey Arshavin: He may have struggled to set the world alight in the Premier League, but Arshavin is a key player for Russia. As captain, he will be instructed to guide the younger members of the squad this summer.

Previous Best: Semi-final, 2008

Sports Mole's prediction for Euro 2012: Quarter-finals