Football: Russia satisfied with Euro 2012 draw

Published: 02 Dec 2011 - 19:16:50

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Football: Russia satisfied with Euro 2012 draw

Russian international midfielder Alexander Samedov said Friday's Euro 2012 draw, which pitted his team against Poland, Greece and the Czech Republic, could have been a lot worse.

"It's a normal draw," Samedov said. "It could be much, much worse."

"All four teams are looking quite even and all are dangerous opponents. We shall take all of the opponents seriously. But I believe we can reach the play-offs."

Midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov said the Russian team should not underestimate their Group A rivals.

"We shall take all our rivals seriously," said the Everton player. "It will be a great mistake to underestimate any of our group opponents. But in our group we have more chances to reach quarter-finals than if we were drawn into the Group B."

Russia's national coach Dick Advocaat said he was expecting a very tough and interesting battle of well-matched opponents.

"In our group any team can finish on top," the Dutchman said. "I foresee some very interesting and thrilling battles for a place in the play-offs. And I'm looking forward to the start of the European championships. It will be really interesting event."

Georgy Yartsev, who coached the country's national team in 2003-2005, also said that Russia got quite a favourable draw as they managed to avoid meeting with the strongest opponents in the group stage.

"It definitely wasn't the worst draw," Yartsev said. "There are four even opponents in our group. Poland are the hosts and it gives them a slight advantage."

"We managed to avoid a tougher draw but it doesn't mean we should rub our hands with joy. Everything is possible in our group. Any team can beat any of its opponents."