How they got there: For the Euro 2008 qualifying campaign. Russia were drawn into group E with England, Croatia, Israel, FYR Macedonia, Estonia, and Andorra. Russia were able to qualify in second place with 24 points above England who had 23 points.
Coach - Guus Hiddink: Enjoyed great success in club football with PSV Eindhoven and has since built a fabulous reputation as a tournament coach after leading South Korea to the 2002 World Cup semis and Australia to the last 16 in 2006.
Star player - Andrei Arshavin: His value to Russia is in his versatility, being able to play in 'the hole' behind a lone striker or partnership, on the wing, or as a straightforward striker. However, he will miss the opening two group games through suspension and Hiddink must decide whether he still warrants inclusion on that basis.
Tactics: Hiddink is set to line up in a 4-5-1 formation, with Arshavin floating behind Dmitri Sychev or Roman Pavlyuchenko.
Strengths: Hiddink's vast tournament experience is their biggest weapon, and he is sure to generate a nothing-to-lose attitude among his players.
Weaknesses: Away defeats to England and Israel in qualification raise questions about their defence, and the feeling is they still lack quality, especially without star man Arshavin.
Verdict: Hiddink's Midas touch in a tournament will surely come to an end. Out at the first hurdle.
If they were a band they would be: 50 Cent
Helpful translation: "How much to buy your football club?" is "Сколько купить ваш футбольный клуб?"
