"I believe that Russia will get past the group stage," Kerzhakov told journalists.

He added that he hoped Russia's team would be able to cope with Egypt star forward Mohamed Salah, admitting that "it will be difficult."

Kerzhakov took part in the opening ceremony of the FIFA Fan Fest in the Russian capital that was held next to Moscow State University's main building at Vorobyovy Gory (Sparrow Hills) on Sunday. He urged supporters to visit the fan zone, saying that "they [the Russian national team] will play the right way with our support."

The retired forward noted that he was sure Russia would hold the tournament successfully.

"I know how well prepared our country is, how much it has been waiting for this World Cup. I'm sure that all the fans, all the Russian people will show great hospitality," he said during the event.

 Russia will host its first FIFA World Cup from June 14 to July 15. The fixtures will be played at 12 stadiums across 11 cities. The host nation will face Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Uruguay in Group A.