“The first game, against Saudi Arabia, will be very important. If the team play at their level, they will win… I understand Cherchesov perfectly. Judging by his interview, he is holding on and doesn't budge an inch. I wish that he remains calm and then everything will be fine,” Yepanchintsev said, adding that he believed the team would reach the knockout stage.

Russia were held to a 1-1 draw by Turkey in their last warm-up game ahead of the World Cup at the CSKA Arena in Moscow on Tuesday, less than a week after losing to Austria 1-0 in Innsbruck on May 30.

“It is clear that the team are under pressure, let’s hope they will play at a decent level at the World Cup. You have to believe in our footballers,” Yepanchintsev said.

Hosts Russia will take on Saudi Arabia in the opening match of the tournament on June 14 before facing their other two opponents in Group A, Egypt and Uruguay.