Many Russian football fans and the Russian media feel the hooligan perception held by much of the European media is wrong. There’s widespread worries about the 2018 World Cup being held in Russia, largely due to fan behaviour.
Whilst there’s some truth in the Russian complaints, pictures being shown around the world of Russians viciously attacking other fans during Euro 2016 is behind the increased concern, and comments from government officials haven’t helped.
Belgium drew 3-3 with Russia away on Tuesday, with questions being asked once again about former Everton manager Roberto Martinez’s ability to organise a defence.
Het Belang van Limburg report on the disappointment of conceding three goals, but they also publish an article about Romelu Lukaku being ‘alarmed’ as a fan got to him on the pitch. The fan dodged security to get to the Everton player, but he only wanted a selfie so no harm was done.
As for Lukaku being shocked or alarmed, the Everton player didn’t really seem too concerned, and perhaps that it’s made news in Belgium underlines some of the concerns coming from Russian fans.