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The USA played host to Russia in June 2018 as part of the mid-year internationals. The fixture was the first of three June Internationals for the Eagles while the Bears from Russia would be playing their first of two matches in North America.
With both the USA and Russia already having qualified for RWC 2019 the fixture was a vital part of the road to Japan for both parties. The USA are in the toughest group of the tournament. Awaiting them are powerhouses Argentina, England, and France. The weakest opponent is to be Tonga, a highly reputable team which have a decorated history in rugby.
Russia qualified following a scandal which shook World Rugby to its core. It saw Belgium, Romania, and Spain all disqualified from RWC qualifying. Romania had qualified and were to face Japan in the tournament opener. Instead Russia will now do so and will also play against Ireland, Scotland and the winner of the qualifying series between Samoa and Germany.
The 2018 match between the USA and Russia saw the Eagles playing impressive rugby. Joe Taufete’e and Marcel Brache both scored doubles though this was very much a collective performance with Gary Gold’s team coming together superbly.
For a complete match report click here.
