2018 FIFA WC: Luzhniki’s Tale

XtraTime Web Desk:The primary 12 venues have been brought down  to a pair of stadiums as the 2018 FIFA World Cup reaches its apex. On 15 July, the Luzhniki Stadium will entertain the most crucial of all: the World Cup Final.

One of the slots in that finale will be decided by the next game to be played out in front of just over 78,000 fans, the last four between England and Croatia. On the eve of this exciting match, lets look at the matches played in this famed venue.



Russia 5-0 Saudi Arabia

To say the World Cup started with a bang would be something of an understatement. The Luzhniki launched this fantastic tournament into the stratosphere from day one, thanks to a magnificent five-goal haul for the hosts. Iury Gazinsky grabbed the first goal of Russia 2018, before Denis Cheryshev’s brace was complemented by goals from Artem Dzyuba and Aleksandr Golovin.

Germany 0-1 Mexico

A match that made the world sit up and take notice. Germany’s title defence was on the backfoot from the off, thanks to Hirving Lozano’s well-worked goal. Mexico’s ruthless counter-attacking style saw Juan Carlos Osorio create a blueprint for defeating the Germans.

Germany 0-1 Mexico

A match that made the world sit up and take notice. Germany’s title defence was on the backfoot from the off, thanks to Hirving Lozano’s well-worked goal. Mexico’s ruthless counter-attacking style saw Juan Carlos Osorio create a blueprint for defeating the Germans.



Denmark 0-0 France

This will not be a game that lives long in the memory of those who attended, but it was memorable for both sides, as they got what they both needed. The Danes confirmed their passage to the knockout rounds, while France sealed top spot in Group C thanks to this uneventful goalless draw.

Spain 1-1 Russia (3-4 PSO)

To put it simply: the most memorable day in Russian footballing history. The hosts, cheered on by a quite magnificent and vociferous Luzhniki crowd, equalised after an early set-back before holding firm to take the 2010 World Cup winners all the way to penalties. Igor Akinfeev was the hero, saving first from Koke and then Iago Aspas, to spark a Muscovite roar that reverberated around Russia.