“This match is really important for us and the fans; having the Champions League in town is like a public holiday for Kazan. People here have dreamt about it. A few years ago we never thought great clubs would come to Kazan, not even for friendly games. Of course, I'm a bit nervous as it is also a new experience for me. However, I think we are ready to face Inter. I don't think our opponents will underestimate us, especially considering what José Mourinho said about wanting to be safe before their trip to Barcelona,” Kurban Berdyev, Rubin coach, told UEFA.com.

Rubin were one goal ahead after the first half in Kiev on Matchday 1, but conceded three after the break, to go down 3-1 to Dynamo in the end. The loss became a serious blow for the Kazan team as they got only one point in two of Russia’s Premier League games since then. They will need to be at their best to surprise the Italian champions, who come into the match as firm favorites.

Meanwhile Inter manager Jose Mourinho won't be bringing a number of players with him, including Dutch midfielder Wesley Sneijder.

“In the coming three matches, against Rubin and Dynamo Kiev, we want to earn enough points to travel to Barcelona on Matchday 5 in a safe position. I've watched several Rubin games; this is a very well organized team. They use a 4-4-2 system and strikers Aleksandr Bukharov and Alejandro Domínguez link up very well. Rubin are at home, which gives them an advantage, and the weather is not on our side, as in Milan it is much warmer than here at this time of year,” José Mourinho, Inter boss, said.

In another Group F encounter, table toppers Dynamo Kiev travel to Catalonia to take on defending UEFA Champions League champs FC Barcelona.