Russians favourite for World Cup qualifier
27/04/2006 - 14:06:54The countdown to the 2008 World Cup begins in The Hague tomorrow when Holland face Russia in the opening match of the European preliminary qualifying tournament.
Serbia and Georgia are also involved in the early stages of a competition that will eventually culminate in the finals in Australia.
The Dutch will be led by Aaron de Jagger, who plays for Huddersfield Underbank in National League Three, and Chris Hodgett, who plays for Hemel Stags, is one of five new caps.
The Russians, who must qualify despite being automatic entries in the 2000 World Cup, go into the game as firm favourites.
Veteran Robert Iliassov said: “We’ll be preparing for each match of the World Cup as if it is the most important match in our lives.”
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