Group APredicted ordser of finish: Uruguay, Egypt, Russia, Saudi Arabia Russia is not the favorite in this foursome, but as the home team, all eyes will turn its way. The host country, after all, carries the weight of a riveted populace and, except for South Africa’s predictable frailties in 2010, 19 welcoming parties over 84 years dodged the perils of group play. It’s the least they should accomplish. In many nations, though, expectations demand a ride to the semifinals and beyond. So where do Russia’s hopes and dreams lie? Or, given its dearth of success in major competitions since the Soviet Union collapsed, where do they die? Advertisement Despite gaining a favorable draw, the Russians are not a sure bet of advancing to the next stage. They are No. 66 in the FIFA rankings, behind, among others, Albania, Bolivia and Cape Verde Islands. Only Saudi Arabia (tied for 67th) is worse – and the Saudis just so happened to land in Russia’s group. (Go figure.) Several Russian regulars are sidelined with injuries and only one is a full-time starter in a major league outside Russia. Victory over the Saudis in the opener would boost morale, but the team would still…