Russia vs. Liechtenstein: Date, Time, Live Stream, TV Info and Preview
Giants will face off against minnows on Monday evening as Russia take on Liechtenstein in the first fixture of either side's run toward Euro 2016.
Fabio Capello's side are considered favourites to emerge as first-place victors from Group G, while their midweek foes are currently among those tipped to finish on the other end of the spectrum.
A long road lies ahead until the European Championship's make-up comes to light, but Russia will seek to strengthen their bid with a fine beginning in Khimki.
Date: Monday, September 8
Time: 5 p.m. BST/12 p.m. ET
Live Stream: Sky Go (UK, subscription required), FOXSoccer2GO (US)
TV Info: Sky Sports 5 (UK), Fox Sports 1 (US)
Form Guide
Russia were a disappointment at the World Cup, managing just two goals en route to a record of two draws and one defeat in what was in theory a group they could have won with a result against Belgium.
The team have since bounced back from those concerns with a morale-boosting 4-0 friendly triumph over Azerbaijan last week, but as Russian journalist Artur Petrosyan points out, there were negatives in that instance, too:
On paper, Liechtenstein should be easy pickings, considering their last win came in August 2012, and their last competitive victory was all the way back in June 2011, beating Lithuania 2-0 in Euro 2012 qualifying.
With just one defeat in the past 12 months, Capello has at least instilled a stubborn mentality in his squad, and although not always dazzling in their approach, one can expect Monday's visitors to find it difficult in breaking the deadlock.
What's more, Russia have an unbeaten home record stretching back to November 2010, per Soccerway, indicating how tough teams tend to find a trip to the chilly Eastern European climate.
Key Battle
Vasili Berezutski vs. Mario Frick
A battle of captain versus captain is set to ensue in Khimki when defensive staple meets attacking icon. Russia's back-line totem Vasili Berezutski hasn't been a constant presence for the national team in recent years, but there are few matches Liechtenstein's Mario Frick has missed out on.
Frick will lead his nation's line a day after turning 40, a commendable achievement for one so seasoned, even if his years don't promise to improve the visiting outfit's chances of success that significantly.
However, his experience on this stage will lend itself well to Liechtenstein, and he'll at least give his midfield a platform to work from in attack, despite needing those around him to pick up a large portion of the legwork.
Berezutski's reinstatement as Russia's leader has seen some of the pressure alleviated from centre-back partner Sergei Ignashevich, but the CSKA Moscow pair will strive to ensure their borders go without even the slightest threat come Monday.
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