Miguel Perez, the secretary general of the Cuban Football Federation, spoke with clear resolve about the upcoming friendly with Russia. He emphasized that the Cuban national team is not intimidated by the challenge and is determined to compete at a high level. The focus, according to Perez, is on preparation and performance. The purpose of the trip, he noted, is to test the squad, sharpen tactics, and build confidence through rigorous competition. The Cuban side arrived with a pragmatic mindset, ready to measure itself against a team that has faced recent disruptions but remains a strong opponent in regional and international play. Perez underscored that the visit is about football first and sport as a bridge between nations, not about politics or pressure. He made it plain that every moment on the field would be used to develop the group and push players to demonstrate their best form in a challenging environment.
Officials and players alike anticipate a competitive match when the two nations meet in Volgograd on November 20. The kickoff is scheduled for 19:30 Moscow time, a window that could present interesting tactical dynamics given the travel schedule and the time zone difference. The match will be one of several international tests for Cuba in 2023, a year that has seen the team seek frequent opportunities to test itself against varied styles and approaches. For Cuban fans and analysts, the encounter offers a rare chance to evaluate the squad’s cohesion, pressing intensity, and decision-making under pressure, as the team continues to prepare and refine its approach on the international stage.
Since spring 2022, FIFA and UEFA have suspended Russia from participation in the competitions they control, a decision that redefined the rhythm of both nations’ football calendars. Under the new framework, Russian clubs and the national team have been limited to friendly matches rather than official competitive fixtures, a change that has shaped scheduling and preparation strategies for teams across Europe and beyond. This context frames the Volgograd clash, highlighting how the players and coaches of both sides adapt to a schedule that prioritizes friendlies as a primary form of competitive play. The Cuban team, in particular, has used these opportunities to test tactical systems, evaluate emerging talents, and build a more cohesive unit that can compete with diverse opponents in a reporting cycle that continues to evolve.
Previous comments from Valery Karpin, the Russian coach, suggested a determination to approach the Cuba game with seriousness and a readiness to pursue victory. Although the goal remains to perform well, the official stance has also acknowledged the unpredictable nature of international matchups, especially in a calendar shaped by ongoing suspensions and policy considerations. The dialogue surrounding the match reflects a mutual respect for the effort required to compete on the global stage, with both teams seeking to maximize the exposure, experience, and learning that come from international friendlies. In Volgograd, the players will be watched closely by coaches and scouts who look for evidence of tactical growth, technical improvement, and the ability to translate preparation into results on match day.