Russia boosted by the support of Putin

An impressive Croatia outfit led by midfield lynchpins Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic stand in the way of the hosts Russia on Saturday in Sochi, but coach Stanislav Cherchesov said his side were boosted by the support of President Vladimir Putin.

Widely written off, including by their own supporters, before the tournament began, hosts Russia know they now stand just two matches from the July 15 final at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

“President Putin called me before the (last-16) game with the Spanish and after,” said Cherchesov, who masterminded a win against Spain on penalties in the last 16.

“Of course when the president supports you, it makes us comfortable. The players know this and it is just an extra boost for us in terms of motivation.” concluded Cherchesov.