Putin puts in a call to Russia boss during press conference

When Vladimir Putin calls, you answer. Russia coach Stanislav Cherchesov’s press conference was interrupted with a phone call from the president – and he liked what he had just watched.

Cherchesov had just taken his team to the biggest win in any World Cup opening game for nearly 100 years.

Russia defeated Saudi Arabia 5-0 and it means the host nation haven’t lost in any of the 21 World Cup opening games.

READ MORE: Russia’s five-gun salute opens the World Cup in style

READ MORE: Russian star set for scan after limping off

President Putin called to pass on his regards to the team, a side written off ahead of the tournament as no-hopers by the national media and former stars.

“’It was the head of state who called me with congratulations,” Cherchesov said after the one-sided win.

“He asked me to share his thanks with the team and to keep them playing like this.

“We made the first step today, then there is a stronger opponent,” Cherchesov added after watching his side romp to victory.

“We play Egypt next are we don’t know if Salah is going to play but even without him they are a respectably strong team.”

But Russia are also certain to be without striker Alan Dzagoev, who pulled a hamstring midway through the first half.