Former head coach of Russia’s national team, Anatoly Byshovets, suggested that a squad of young players could face Cuba. Match TV reported his view, emphasizing that such a game might be staged not by the senior national team but by a group of promising prospects. Byshovets pointed out that a youth lineup would be more suitable for a match against Cuba, highlighting the developmental value and competitive exposure for emerging talents.
The game is scheduled to take place in Volgograd on November 20. Since spring 2022, FIFA and UEFA suspended Russia from their competitions, a decision that shifted Russia’s national team and clubs to only play friendly matches under the current regulatory framework. The suspension has shaped scheduling and opponent selection, pushing teams to arrange non-competitive fixtures while the broader international status remains unresolved. As a result, Russia’s senior program has adapted to a landscape focused on friendlies that help maintain player development and international exposure.
Under head coach Valery Karpin, the Russian national team played five friendlies in 2023. In October, the team secured a 1-0 win over Cameroon and drew 2-2 with Kenya, reflecting a transitional period where performance and squad building remain central objectives. These results illustrate the ongoing efforts to refine tactics, integrate younger players, and preserve competitive readiness despite the constraints from European governing bodies.
Previously, Dmitry Khokhlov stated that Russia does not need to select its opponents in a restrictive manner, suggesting a more dynamic approach to scheduling that prioritizes development and experimentation. This stance aligns with an emphasis on giving players opportunities to compete at different levels, regardless of whether opponents come from traditional football powerhouses or emerging nations. The overall message is one of flexibility and pragmatic planning as Russia navigates the evolving international football landscape.