CSKA – Spartak M

Spartak should not be considered outsiders in the derby

CSKA will play at home against Spartak on Thursday, 25 April. The Moscow derby is getting some unexpected parlays. The Army men are no longer considered clear favourites to win the medals, while Spartak have come alive with a new coach and could surge to third place. Vladimir Slishkovich's side sensationally defeated Rostov away, scoring five goals. The game turned out to be perfect for the Red-Whites. The coach surprisingly switched to a scheme with three centre-backs. It's very likely that the same formation will be in place against CSKA, as the Army Men never play a different tactic with Fedotov. Slišković's legionnaires have come alive, and the players played their best game of the season. Jesus Medina stood out, scoring two goals. At the moment, Spartak is on a moral high. This is a very important factor. Plus, there is also motivation in the standings. "Red-Whites" are only three points behind Dynamo. Bronze medals after the failed Abascal era will be a good result. CSKA, on the other hand, now seem to be entering crisis times. "Red-Blue" lost at home to Akhmat, This defeat hits hard on Vladimir Fedotov's prospects. A lot of unpleasant rumours have appeared regarding the Army Men's coach. In particular, more and more information about a possible resignation at the end of the season. The management expected CSKA to be in the top three. That was the minimum goal. In addition to game problems, CSKA also has a personnel crisis. Abbosbek Faizullayev is disqualified for the derby. The player went to the national team, which is qualifying for the Asian Cup. In the centre of defence we should again count on Kirill Nababkin. Willian Rocha and Igor Diveyev received red cards in the game against Akhmat. Both of them miss the derby. That means that only Moses is left of the main centre-backs. It's very likely that CSKA's first priority now is the cup game against Zenit. It's the only chance to salvage a disappointing season. Because of this, CSKA no longer look like favourites against Spartak. Bookmakers are still slightly favouring the Army Men. The home field factor still plays a role. On the other hand, Spartak is on an emotional high. The team can win a few more games just through psychology. Fedotov's strong point is defensive play, but at the moment there is simply no one to defend. Even the goalkeeper position is in doubt. Akinfeev is failing this season. There is no certainty that the veteran will come out for the derby. It is logical to assume at least an even match, in which Spartak's versatile attack will definitely have chances.