Agalarov stars again as Russia U21s dominate Malta

Russia U21 6-0 Malta U21
Under-21 European Championships qualifier
Tuesday 7 September, Arena Khimki

Goals: Russia - Khlusevich 6’, 13’ Agalarov 16’, 74’ Bozhenov 80’ Kravtsov 86’ 

Gamid Agalarov was once again at the forefront as Russia tore into a lightning quick 3-0 lead inside the opening 16 minutes. 

The Ufa striker, fresh from scoring on his under-21 debut away to Spain at the weekend, scored his second international goal in two games, but not before setting up Daniil Khlusevich for the Arsenal Tula midfielder’s second goal.

With just over quarter of an hour to go, Nikita Iosifov floated a cross in for Agalarov to deftly flick a delightful header into the far corner - but it wasn’t the most stunning strike. With 10 minutes left, Kirill Bozhenov lashed a spectacular swerving effort dipping over the keeper from outside the penalty area.

Kirill Kravtsov completed the rout with a few minutes left.

Russia leapfrog Malta into third spot in Group C, with both teams on three points.

Next Euro 2023 qualifiers: Friday 8 October - Russia U21 vs Northern Ireland U21; Lithuania U21 vs Malta U21