Kerzhakov: Freezing conditions no advantage

Zenit St Petersburg striker Alexander Kerzhakov believes sub-zero temperatures in Russia will not play to his side’s advantage in their Champions League last-16 clash against Benfica.

Thermometers are set to drop to minus 15 degrees centigrade at the Petrovsky Stadium tonight, with the freezing conditions likely to affect the visiting team more than the hosts.

However, the Portuguese side will be tough opponents after they reached the last 16 by topping a group which contained Manchester United, who were knocked out of the competition thanks in part to the 2-2 draw at home to Benfica.