MOSCOW - Russian President Vladimir Putin said he hoped fans, players and officials enjoyed their stay in Russia during the World Cup, which kicked off in Moscow on Thursday.

"Football is truly loved here and it is called love at first sight, since our first official match here in 1897," Putin said moments before the first match between Russia and Saudi Arabia at Luzhniki Stadium.

"I hope fans and teams enjoy their stay in Russia, an open, hospitable and friendly country with people who have the shared values.

"Football brings us altogether in one team, we are united by this spectacular game," he added.