Victory is essential if Russia, currently languishing in last place in group D, are to make it into the final of a major tournament for the first time since the collapse of the Soviet Union.
Russia's trainer, Gus Hiddink, told journalists "I'm curious to see how our players manage, not just tactically but mentally and emotionally."
However, Hiddink, 61, faces a challenge with the only scorer in the opening match, Roman Pavlyuchenko struggling with a groin injury. Pavlyuchenko missed practice on Thursday, but took part in a session Friday.
Hiddink said a decision on whether Pavlyuchenko was fit would be made Saturday, "He has a slightly tense muscle."
The Dutch trainer is also missing two other strikers, Pavel Pogrebnyak and Andrei Arshavin also out of tonight's match through injury and suspension.
