Russia qualified to Euro 2016 with wins in last matches of their group. With the head coach Leonid Slutsky "Sbornaya" is playing much better and organised. Russia is with domestic manager for first time since 11 years and this affects positively in the backroom. The team played knockout phase only once (without USSR records) in 2008 and reaching that stage again would be a great success for Slutsky. Sbornaya is coming with big expectations, but can they become a heroes like 8 years ago?

Russia in European championships:

The manager: Leonid Slutsky

The "Russian Moutinho" managed Uralan Elista in Russian Premier league, when he was only 31 years old. Than he led FC Moscow to appearances in the UEFA Cup. Since 2009, Slutsky is the manager of CSKA Moscow. With the "Army men" he won the Premier league, Russian Cup and the Supercup twice. Also the team regularly plays in the Champions league. Russia is Leonid's first job in national level and a new challenge for the young, but experienced manager.

The star: Alan Dzagoev 

Russia looks balanced team with the Krasnodar duo Pavel Mamaev and Fedor Smolov, center forward Artem Dzyuba and the veterans Ignashevich and Akinfeev. But CSKA midfielder Alan Dzagoev is the player, who can make a difference. He was the top scorer of UEFA Euro 2012, where he played as right winger. This season Alan is playing mainly as regista at his club and this role developed him as a player. With great vision, killer pass and good dribbling, Dzagoev will be a leading force for "Sbornaya".  

Russia's matches in Group B:

11 June 2016 - England - Russia - 21:00, Stade Velodrome, Marseille

15 June 2016 - Russia - Slovakia - 15:00, Stade Pierre-Mauroy, Lille

20 June 2016 - Russia - Wales, 21:00, Stadium Municipal, Toulouse