On Monday, February 26, the Russian junior team (players born in 2001) played the first match at the international tournament "UAE Cup" in Dubai. Our team played in a draw against Japan with a score of 2:2.

Russia – Japan 2:2 (1:0)

Goals: Vorotnikov, 8 (1:0). Repyakh, 50 (2:0). Japan, 67 (2:1). Japan, 90+1 (2:2).

Missed penalty: Japan, 75.

Russia: Eshchenko (С), Sharkov (Gerchikov, 81), Silyanov, Nikitenkov, Sungatulin (Khasanov, 83), Sevikyan (Sentyurin, 46), Usanov (Shkolik, 69), Petrov (Repyakh, 46), Kutovoy, Sukharev, Vorotnikov (Khubulov, 71).

Mikhail Polishkis, acting head coach of the Russian national team:

- We were confronted by a very serious opponent. The team of Japan is a top, very strong team. In general, we played well in defense. The guys fulfilled those tasks that we had set in terms of defensive actions, except for some optional errors. I’d like to talk up my players. The team has done good work! They have withstood the pace, in spite of rather hot weather. Yes, we could win today, led with the score 2:0. We played according to the plan set for this game - from the defense, with quick outs to the attack. We managed to do it sometimes. I would like to thank the goalkeeper who prevented a penalty. In general, the match left a dual feeling. On the one hand, there were good moments, on the other - they missed the victory. Of course, both the coaching staff, and the players have certain feeling of dissatisfaction. But we will continue to work and prepare for the next match, which we will be held on February 28 against the team of Bahrain.