Adobe Flash Player Required.
Download the latest version here.

Fernandes happy with debut

25 July 2012-AFP

CSKA Moscow defender Mario Fernandes said he was satisfied with his debut in the Russian Premier League, adding he was happy to grab a win in his first league appearance.

"We played classy football and won the match deservedly," Fernandes, who joined the three-time Russian champion from Brazilian giant Gremio in the close season, said.

"I think we could have clinched a more confident win over Rostov but I believe we will have more opportunities for it during the season."

The Red Army side beat 1-0 Rostov in the domestic season-opening match with striker Seydou Doumbia, who topped the league's scoring charts last season, scoring the winner.

Right-back Fernandes added that he felt comfortable at CSKA, as he was warmly welcomed right after his arrival to his new team by every member of the club.

"I feel myself here in CSKA like being at home and it helps me a great deal when I come onto the pitch in the club's jersey," he said.

"I think in general I've already adjusted to the team's playing style. At least I have a feeling that I understand my team-mates when we're on the pitch. And what is even more important they seem to understand me."

Fernandes added that he has to act more quickly in the Russian league compared with Brazil.

"Here in Russia football is a bit more speedy and tight than the style I've been playing in Brazil," he said. "On the pitch you need to make decisions immediately and act quickly with the ball to avoid losing it."

Fernandes also said he was taken with CSKA fans and their passionate support.

"CSKA fans really impressed me," he said. "I'd say they're more loud than Brazilian cheering. And they supported us through the entire match. I liked it very much."

Guus Hiddink Anzhi

Russian Premier League

Hiddink extends Anzhi stay

Former Australia coach Guus Hiddink has extended his contract with Russian big spender Anzhi Makhachkala, the club says, after it achieved its best finish with third place in this season's championship.

0 Comments

ADVERTISEMENT
2013 FIFA Confederations Cup

2013 FIFA Confederations Cup

All the action from Brazil, where the six confederation football champions are joined by EURO 2012 runner-up Italy and the host nation to contest the Confederations Cup.

0 Comments

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
The Da Vinci Cup (DVD)

The Da Vinci Cup (DVD)

Join Pauly Falzoni of Fat Pizza fame as he takes us behind the secret conspiracy of the world’s biggest sport.

The Fabric of the Cosmos (DVD)

The Fabric of the Cosmos (DVD)

A mind-blowing new exploration of space, time, and the very nature of reality.

  • '09 #1 Sports Soccer Website, Hitwise
  • '09 #1 Television Program, Hitwise
  • '08 #1 Sports Soccer Website, Hitwise