Russian President Vladimir Putin told his Portuguese counterpart Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on Wednesday that a possible encounter between Russia and Portugal at the FIFA World Cup would not affect the relations between the two countries.
"There will be no damage to the relations regardless of the way the competition ends. On the contrary, sport brings countries and people together and we, as the hosts of the tournament, as the host country, are happy for those who win and we sympathize with those who fail," Putin said.
After beating Egypt 3-1 in their second game of the tournament on Tuesday, Russia are currently top of Group A and are bound to reach the last 16, where they could play Portugal.
"There is a certain problem which may occur if we have to play against each other... Regardless of the result of the match, if it does take place, I hope our diplomatic relations will not be affected," de Sousa said.
The 2018 FIFA World Cup kicked off on June 14 and will continue until July 15, with the matches being played in 11 cities across Russia.
Related Articles
French footballers fuelled by Argentinian provocation
Palestine inspired by fans ahead of Socceroos clash
