Anton Shunin, the veteran goalkeeper for Moscow Dynamo and the Russian national team, shared his perspective on matches against teams from Asia. He spoke about the broader ambitions of the sport and how these encounters fit into the evolving football landscape.
He emphasized a practical view of the sport’s development, noting that the quality of playing surfaces can influence outcomes. He recalled a recent trip to Tajikistan where the artificial turf differed markedly from European standards. The contrasts between playing in Tajikistan and at prestigious venues in England, Spain, and Italy were clear to him. On these days, he appreciated the atmosphere of large, enthusiastic crowds on the continent, where the venues are renowned for their design and comfort. For fans from Asia, the visit was a celebration, yet the football experience in Europe remains more appealing for the players and the national squad members themselves.
Shunin also touched on the broader schedule of the national team, explaining that the team continues to play international friendlies against foreign opponents even as official competition under the FIFA and UEFA umbrellas remains suspended for Russia. He pointed out that these matches occur at both club and national team levels, serving as important practice and exposure for the players during this period of transition.
In recent results, the Russian side achieved a 2-0 victory over Iraq and then settled for a 1-1 draw with Iran in March. These fixtures have provided tangible opportunities to test lineups, refine tactics, and measure progress against regional rivals while official sanctions affect participation in official tournaments.
Comments about participation in global events have also been shared by notable figures in the sport. Former Ukrainian great Andriy Shevchenko has discussed Russians taking part in international tournaments under the current sporting climate, highlighting the ongoing debates surrounding eligibility and competition at the highest levels. These discussions reflect the broader questions that players, coaches, and fans are considering as relations between leagues and national associations continue to evolve in the post-sanctions era.