Hosts Russia almost through to 2018 World Cup pre-quarters after beating Egypt 3-1

Hosts Russia continued with their free-flowing, high-scoring style as they defeated Egypt 3-1 in a thrilling tie at the Saint Petersburg Stadium today.

Their big win, after the 5-0 drubbing of Saudi Arabia in the competition’s lung opener, has all but ensured them a place in the pre-quarterfinal.

Russia’s place in the knockout stages will be secured on Wednesday if Uruguay avoid defeat against Saudi Arabia in the next Group A game.

After a goalless first half, Egypt’s Ahmed Fathi put the ball into his own net two minutes after restart. It was followed by two goals in a three-minute spell from Denis Cheryshev and Artem Dzyuba around the hour mark as Russia took their tournament goal tally to eight in two games.

Egyptian talisman Mohamed Salah, playing for the first time since injuring his shoulder in last month's Champions League final, pulled one back from a 73rd minute penalty, awarded after a review by the video assistant referee. But the goal was too little, too late.