Rostov's Icelandic defender Sverrir Ingi Ingason has commented on the World Cup draw in which his country will battle Nigeria, Argentina and Croatia in the group stage.

The 24-year-old acknowledged that Iceland were handed tough group stage opponents but is optimistic that they will qualify for the knockout rounds in their debut appearance at the World Cup.

''Obviously, this is a very strong group. There are a lot of players from European top-leagues in the national teams, but we must be confident and must show our best qualities,'' said Ingason to Sport Express Russia.

Ingason and his Iceland teammates will tackle Croatia at the brand new Rostov Arena, Rostov-on-Don on June 26, starting from 2100 hours Moscow time, same time Nigeria will face Argentina in their last Group D game.

''Some players asked me about the city. They said that this is an excellent and beautiful city, but the new stadium is amazing, I feel very comfortable here.

''I hope the fans will come to support us in Russia, although this is not very close, and we will be able to show an excellent result.''

Igho Kingsley