FIFA World Cup 2018: Teams gear up for the big event in Russia

The FIFA World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14 with hosts Russia taking on Saudi Arabia in the opener. The month-long tournament will see 32 nations from across the world taking on each other in football’s biggest tournament. There will be 64 matches in total. The semi-finals will take place on July 11 and July 12, with the final to take place on July 15. The 32 teams will be divided into 8 groups, consisting of four teams each. The two top teams from all the groups will make it to the Round of 16. (Source: Reuters)

Germany football team arrives in Russia. The defending Champions Germany will hope to clinch the trophy once again but are likely to face stiff competition from the likes of England, France, Argentina and Spain, who will be eager to give a tough fight this year. (Source: AP)

Cristiano Ronaldo during Portugal's practice session. (Source: Reuters)

Australia's Tim Cahill practices before the World Cup 2018 begins. Australia will begin their campaign from June 16 against France. (Source: Reuters)

Poland will be up against Senegal in the first match of the tournament. (Source: Reuters)

The 2014 World Cup semifinalists Brazil booked their place in the next World Cup back in March. They will play Switzerland in the first match. (Source: AP)

Croatia are placed in Group D with Argentina, Iceland and Nigeria. They will play Nigeria in the first match on June 16. (Source: Reuters)

Mexico team arrives in Russia. (Source: Reuters)

Peru team during the FIFA World Cup 2018 practice session. (Source: Reuters)

France face Australia in their first group match. (Source: AP)