Uruguay vs Russia: 5 things to look forward to

REUTERS/Marko Djurica

Hosts Russia will hope to round off their impressive start to their home tournament by beating South American nation Uruguay in Samara on Monday. 

Stanislav Cherchesov's men have started their World Cup journey at a blistering pace and boast the healthiest goal difference in the tournament after the first two rounds of matches. 

The Russians have scored an incredible eight goals in those two games, with Mohamed Salah's consolation goal from the penalty spot being the sole concession. 

For the Uruguayans, though, the start has been sluggish, at least by their usually high standards.

Having scraped a narrow, last-gasp win over Egypt in their opener - courtesy of a Jose Gimenez header - many expected La Celeste to kick on and gather momentum. 

Instead, Oscar Tabarez's side were frustrated by a stubborn Saudi Arabia side who didn't allow them much opportunity to get into their familiar groove. 

Though Luis Suarez's strike was enough to give his side all three points, the performances left a lot to be desired. 

Here are five things to look forward to: