In Estonia - additional protection for the match against Russia © EuroFootball.com

Due to increased political tension in Estonia, additional police forces will be deployed during the European Championship qualifying match against Russia.

The relationship between the two countries has soured somewhat due to Estonia's decision to remove the Soviet World War II monument in the center of Tallinn. In Russia's view, this would mean disrespect for the soldiers who fought against Nazism.

"We are doing everything to ensure security during the international matches held in Tallinn," said local police representative Harry Puusepp. According to him, it is expected that there will be no problems and the arrival of 900 Russian fans.

Local hooligans promise to march to the stadium as usual, but do not intend to provoke or engage in incidents.

Currently, Russia is in second place in their group, having earned 8 points in 4 matches. Meanwhile, Estonia, after three consecutive defeats, including a 0:2 loss to future opponents in St. Petersburg, desperately needs a victory.

It is worth noting that in this match, the guests will be without 6 important players: goalkeeper Vyacheslav Malofeyev, defender Igor Semshov, defenders Alexei Berezutsky and Denis Kolodin will not play due to injuries, playmaker Igor Titov due to family circumstances, and forward Pavel Pogrebnyak is disqualified.