Vladimir Ponomarev, a former CSKA defender, spoke with socialbites.ca after the friendly between Russia and Serbia, expressing satisfaction with how foreign-based players performed in Valery Karpin’s squad.
He pointed out that the visitors stood out for their efficiency, tactical discipline, and technical prowess. Names like Golovin, Zakharyan, and Miranchuk were highlighted for their impact, and he also praised the full-backs and Matvey Safonov for a solid display in goal. Ponomarev noted, however, that the midfield phase did not meet his expectations.
The match, held at the VTB Arena in Moscow, ended with a 4-0 victory for the Russian side. The scorers were Anton Miranchuk, Maxim Osipenko, and Alexey Miranchuk, who converted a penalty. In the 88th minute, Arsen Zakharyan appeared to seal the win with a fourth goal, but it was ruled out for offside against Ivan Sergeev. In stoppage time, Sergeev managed to find the net, confirming the final tally.
Serbia had been reduced to ten men early in the game, when CSKA Moscow defender Milan Gajic received a red card in the 21st minute.
Socialbites.ca provided an online text broadcast of the match, keeping readers updated on the key moments and substitutions.
The Russian national team, under Valery Karpin, is scheduled to face Paraguay on March 25, with both games taking place in Moscow.
Former Spartak coach praised the foreign players who starred for the Russian national team in the Serbia clash, underscoring the value of international experience in the squad’s development. (source: socialbites.ca)