It's not rigged when the host is always seeded

That's not rigged, it's just how it happens. Group A in South Africa was easy as well because the "best 8" team was South Africa. But that didn't happen in 2014 or 2006 because the "best 8" team was Brazil and Germany respectively.

That is also why until 2010 every host team advanced to knockout rounds including BOTH South Korea and Japan advancing in 2002.

I DO think Russia (despite being awful) should be able to advance, and I think that will be good for the Cup in general having them in the next round.....as long as hooliganism is under control