A former member of Russia’s national team, Vitaly Dyakov, notes that the public expectations for the country’s football level are unusually high. His perspective mirrors a broader mood within the sport, where many observers urge a clear-eyed look at the current state of play. Dyakov suggests that belief in strength may outpace reality, calling for a grounded assessment of where Russian football stands today and what steps are needed to strengthen the program across all levels.
The national team carried out three September friendly matches as part of a training camp plan. On September 7 and September 11, Valery Karpin’s squad met the Egyptian Olympic team, ending both games in 1-1 draws. A further matchup with Qatar on September 12 also concluded with a 1-1 result. After these fixtures, players were scheduled to return to their club duties in the coming days, continuing to work on their form while contributing to the broader effort to rebuild the national program for the future.
Since the spring of 2022, Russia has not taken part in international tournaments due to a FIFA-imposed suspension amid ongoing political tensions. This pause has prevented the national team from competing in major events, including the World Cup cycle, and it left a gap in participation for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The halt has prompted observers in the United States, Canada, and beyond to look for signals about a possible path back to international competition and a rebuilding phase that touches every level of Russian football.
Earlier, Tatyana Tarasova weighed in on the topic, voicing concern about the elevated expectations surrounding Russian football. Her remarks offered a cautious view on the sport’s development within the country, underscoring the importance of steady progress rather than reactive declarations about national strength. The dialogue around Russia’s football status continues to be shaped by coaches, former players, and federation officials who monitor the sport’s trajectory and consider the concrete steps needed to restore competitiveness on the world stage. The ongoing discussion also reflects a wider interest among fans in North America, who follow Russia’s journey with curiosity about how the program might evolve once international competition resumes and reforms take hold across youth and senior levels alike.