Because actual more experienced players like to play smaller countries for the challange

I've attempted to get Russia today

Took me 7 tries (or maybe more)

And I still didn't get it

Have you tried checking ur router?

Maybe it's my router problem, but there should be at least 3 times where it is not lagging

Is 300-500 ping bad enough?

I think it might be

Bad players usually play stronger nations because they most likely believe that it gives them a better chance at becoming stronger more easily.

I have a met very few good Russia, Germany and even UK players in my time on the game. I'm a mediocre player myself, so it was fine. My most memorable moment with a bad player was when it took the UK a total of 3 years to defeat me as Ireland. With Spain and Germany's help, may I add. Even Germany couldn't do anything.