It probably wasn't for the match.
It was most likely to be a full technical rehearsal for the opening ceremony - test all the moving parts and then to see how quickly they can clear the pitch of the dancers, pyro cannons and other bits of stage and get the game started.
Playing the game also was used to shakedown the OB. Cameras, mics, circuits that sort of thing. Better to hammer out any flaws on Sunday evening, than Thursday afternoon.
Russia also has previous when it comes to things not working when is should at worldwide sporting event opening ceremony's, so no wonder they want to test everything in good time.
Fifth Olympic Ring at Sochi 2014, anyone?
Why would a football match need a dress rehearsal. #MatchFixing
Never really thought about it before but surely any new stadium needs a technical run through and no better substitute for a football game than a game of football.
Why would a football match need a dress rehearsal. #MatchFixing
Never really thought about it before but surely any new stadium needs a technical run through and no better substitute for a football game than a game of football.
As, I would guess, do the host broadcast crew who may not (probably?) have worked together before.
Olympic venues have numerous test events, so a kickaround of some form after a practice opening ceremony is precisely the sort of thing that would give a venue and host broadcast crew the practice they need before their first time live to the world.
Why would a football match need a dress rehearsal. #MatchFixing
Never really thought about it before but surely any new stadium needs a technical run through and no better substitute for a football game than a game of football.
That's what they use the Confederations Cup for.
The ceremony and all it's associated chaos will have been the main focus of the rehearsal, but actually playing a match will also enable them to test out how they're going to get things like VAR to work in-stadium and with the rights holders, gives things like the data feeds to the broadcasters a proper run down too.
