Putin tips Spain, Germany to conquer SWC

Moscow - President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, has tipped Argentina, Brazil, Germany and Spain as his top four contenders to win the 2018 Soccer World Cup, which starts on Thursday, June 14.

In an interview with China Media Group, Putin says that the 2010 World Cup winners Spain "play a beautiful brand of football". 

Meanwhile, the Russian national team has been in dismal form without a win in seven games, which hasn't gone unnoticed by Putin.

"Sadly, our team has not enjoyed great results lately," said Putin.

"But we, all the fans and football lovers in Russia, have high hopes that our team will make a good showing, play a modern, interesting and beautiful style of football, and fight to the finish."

Russia kick-off proceedings in Group A against Saudi Arabia at the newly built Luzhniki Stadium.

Kick-off is at 17:00 (SA time).