"We should have no fear going into these games. That's how it is."
Despite the absence of key defender Winston Reid, an underwhelming buildup and the expected hostile atmosphere, Hudson feels the All Whites have everything to play for.
"We are looking forward to it, we are not panicking, we are not worried," said Hudson. "If you look at Russia, I actually believe that the prospect for them is even more intimidating. They can't possibly lose to a team like New Zealand."
Hudson isn't underestimating Russia - far from it - but instead pointing out the level of expectation on the Sbornaya. As hosts, they are expected to progress into the semi finals, but any kind of slip up against New Zealand could be fatal to their chances, with Portugal and Mexico still to play.
"They are a dangerous animal," said Hudson. "They've had a difficult time with the media and the fans recently and a bit of instability so you don't know what kind of team will show up. But we have to believe we are going to face the best version of their team and we'll be ready for that."
Russia have had three different coaches in the last two years, as their ranking has slipped to 64. And, similar to England, they struggle to find their best form in tournaments. They are in a rebuilding phase - only nine players remain from the 2016 European Championships squad - but they are still packed with quality.
The occasion will be light years away from the low key match against Belarus last Tuesday, where the All Whites were strangely flat.
So much depends on the performance of the midfield trio, who have to shield the back five and also be good enough to maximise the limited possession they will get.
"We believe we can create chances by playing football and I'll stand by that," said Hudson.
"We won't be going in there and saying 'Oh shit, we are going to defend for 90 minutes'. We won't be doing that."
- By Michael Burgess in St Petersburg
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