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United fans warmly welcomed in Russia

A feeling of warmth between opposing supporters marked Thursday night's Europa League first-leg match between FC Rostov and Manchester United in Russia.

United fans who travelled the long distance for the Round of 16 first-leg encounter were grateful for a notable show of respect from the home fans, after being greeted with inscribed blankets at the entrance to the visitors' section at the Olimp-2 stadium, as part of an initiative called "Gentlefan".

Rostov-On-Don will return to the spotlight next year as a host city for matches at the FIFA World Cup. A statement by the FC Rostov fan group read: "Everyone knows the weather is unpredictable in March, and we as good hosts have to take care of our guests.