On Saturday in Russia, the Confederations Cup starts - the FIFA tournament, which takes place one year before the World Cup, and is considered a dress rehearsal for the host country. Russian national team to open competition with a match against New Zealand.

The Ural region in our national team will be represented by a native of Kamensk-Uralsky, defender Igor Smolnikov. According to him, the Russian national team is ready for the tournament perfectly.

"We are ready well, but as it turns out, we will see only in official matches," the official site of the RFU. - Control games we spent at a fairly decent level, so the mood in the team is good. Such a big tournament happens once in a lifetime, waiting for more positive moments. The loads have decreased, all the guys feel good ".

In addition to New Zealand, our team will have to play against Mexico and the European champion of Portugal, led by the well-known striker Cristiano Ronaldo.

"These are strong rivals, for each game we need to approach the maximum readiness. Cristiano Ronaldo is the best of the best, of course, I want to play against him, "added Igor Smolnikov.

Recall, the match against New Zealand will be held on Saturday, June 17, at the "St Petersburg Stadium".