Russia and Mali played out a goalless draw in an International Friendly on 31 March, with the hosts dominating proceedings but unable to find the breakthrough. Russia created substantially more attacking threat, registering 17 shots—seven on target—and accumulating 2.08 xG, while Mali offered limited resistance with just 10 shots and 0.22 xG. The visitors set up in a compact 5-3-2 formation designed to frustrate, and their goalkeeper proved resolute in keeping Russia at bay; the home side's shot volume translated to few genuine scoring opportunities. Russia's 4-3-3 setup generated consistent pressure, but clinical finishing eluded them throughout. Mali's defensive discipline and goalkeeper's 100% save percentage ensured a stalemate that will frustrate the hosts, despite their clear superiority in chance creation. Both sides remain unbeaten, though Russia will view this as two points dropped against limited opposition.