Over the next month, I'll be covering the World Cup for Tribalfootball. And along the way, I'd like to share with you some of my experiences and keep you up to date with all the action!

Russia thumps Saudi Arabia

The prospect of watching the two lowest ranked teams in the tournament didn't look particularly appetising on paper. But once I arrived at my seat in the Luzhniki Stadium, I would've been content watching non-league football. Fortunately, Russia put on a show for their home supporters and us neutrals in the media tribune, who were stricken by a lack of WiFi or power sockets. The restrictions on work however, allowed for immersion in an encounter, which although wasn't aesthetically pleasing to watch, supplied momentary pieces of brilliance that typify the World Cup.

The WORLD Cup

Yesterday was an eye opener into how football brings people together. The angst typically associated with the mingling of opposition fans was nonexistent. There were Mexicans with pinatas singing at the top of their lungs, Brazilians being interviewed on Peruvian T.V, and Costa Ricans and Colombians conversing in a phone shop while buying Russian sim cards. Following Russia's thumping win, both sets supporters, embarking on the hour-long walk to the train station, with their small knowledge of English, talked about the 90 minutes and where their teams were headed.

The road ahead

The tournament kicks into another gear today with three matches to look forward too. First up is the second Group A game between Egypt and Uruguay, and with Mohamed Salah being cleared to play, expect a cracking encounter in Ekaterinburg, the most eastern point of the country. Morocco then take on Iran in St. Petersburg before the biggest blockbuster of the group stage as Portugal face Spain in Sochi. (Read Blair Newman's match preview here)

As for the locals, I'm sure the party will continue rocking for a few days yet.

Stay tuned in tomorrow for Day 2!