The host’s opening game at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Russia 2021™ did not go quite as expected. Although Alexey Makarov’s magnificent strike secured an extra-time win over USA, Russian fans could be forgiven for expecting a more assured performance from one of the tournament favourites.

One positive, however, was Boris Nikonorov and his two goals. The No9 ’s celebrations, familiar to any fans of Cristiano Ronaldo, sent the home crowd into raptures. Yet, this is not the first time Nikonorov has dedicated one of his strikes to the Portuguese superstar.

“Cristiano’s been a hero of mine since I was a child. I’ve followed him intently for 15 years. He caught my eye straight away, just when he was starting to become a world-class player and developing that strong identity of his. I was still playing 11-a-side football back then; I’d copy his tricks, feints, dribbles. I’ve watched him ever since and I absolutely love him”, the Russian striker revealed to FIFA.com.

Like many other beach soccer players, Nikonorov started out playing traditional football, but at the age of 17 he had to bid farewell to his dream and venture into other areas – even working in a bar as a waiter and rolling his sleeves up in a factory. Then, the striker stumbled across beach soccer. Russia’s victory at the 2011 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup inspired him to give the sport a go, but Cristiano Ronaldo has always remained his reference.

“Of course, you can only respect how he keeps himself in great shape”, Nikonorov explains. “It’s not just about his skill and how he improves himself. I think Ronaldo is a role model for everyone, not just players. I share his values – perseverance, tenacity, constant self-discipline. I think most people could learn something from him.”

But would Cristiano would be any good at beach soccer? “Absolutely! In theory, Cristiano could become a phenomenal player. He has it all: the physique, the work ethic, the right approach, exceptional technique. He’d probably be one of the best at bicycle kicks, but I’m the king!

“In all seriousness, I doubt he needs, or has the motivation, to test himself on this or any other stage as he has already achieved a huge amount.”

Nikonorov scored two goals against USA to add to the five he scored at the 2019 World Cup in Paraguay. And who would bet against him adding to that tally at this tournament?

“We didn’t play well at all; we made too many mistakes. It’s good we have two days until the next game. We’ve got time to analyse what didn’t quite work, and we’ll go out all guns blazing against Paraguay. We can’t play like that again.”

Some may argue that the shaky performance was down to the hosts’ inability to counteract the problems posed by the Americans. But Nikonorov disagrees.

“The USA didn’t surprise us in any way. I was more bewildered by the way we played, but I think we’ll come away and draw the right conclusions from that game. I’d also like to use this opportunity to thank our fans for their amazing support, as well as invite them to our next group game. We’ll try not to disappoint.”

The RFU’s next game is against Paraguay on 21 August. They are a team that Nikonorov and his team-mates know well.

“Paraguay loves its football. We were there at the last World Cup in 2019, and I was amazed at how many pitches they have! The game is a religion over there. And the players are brilliant. We’re expecting a fierce battle, but we’re ready to give 110 percent.”