Hiddink and Arshavin back Russia women
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Article summary
The likes of Guus Hiddink and Andrei Arshavin have pledged their support to Russia's UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2009™ bid in Finland this summer as part of a new campaign to get the public behind the team.
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Article body
The likes of Guus Hiddink and Andrei Arshavin have pledged their support to Russia's UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2009™ bid in Finland this summer.
Campaign
Russia take on Sweden, England and Italy in Group C from 25 August, aiming to produce the sort of performances that led Hiddink's squad to their European semi-finals last year. And the Russian Football Union along with internet portal Russia.ru, online newspaper Days.ru and the business newspaper The Sight, have launched the 'Be a fan of Russia at EURO 2009' campaign to ensure the public get behind the team, coached by former international Igor Shalimov.
Arshavin pledge
Hiddink said: "Women's football worldwide is growing and that is great. I'm sure that results in Finland will be historic. I hope that more women will play football after these finals. Of course I wish Russia good luck." Arshavin pledged: "I will follow the tournament and will support Russia." Russia's build-up to the finals continues with the visit of China for two friendlies on 6 and 9 July.
