On March 16, 2025, FC Akron Tolyatti will host FC CSKA Moscow at the Solidarnost Samara Arena for the 21st round of the Russian Premier League (RPL). With CSKA competing for a top-five finish, this matchup will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
Akron enters this contest with optimism following their convincing 2-0 home victory against Krylya Sovetov. The team managed to secure this win thanks to early contributions from their star striker, Artem Dzyuba, who opened the scoring just nine minutes after kickoff. Dzyuba’s consistent performances have made him the talk of the town, as he is currently the top scorer for Akron, having netted multiple goals this season.
Despite facing some setbacks, including recent injuries to Soltmurad Bakayev and Beneshmol, Akron manager Zaur Tadeev has found ways to keep his squad competitive. With 25 total shots so far this season, the team ranks at the top among the lower half of the tournament table, currently occupying the ninth position, six points clear of the relegation zone.
“Akron's home game against CSKA promises to be interesting,” stated Konstantin Genich, a noted observer for Match TV, who highlighted the positivity surrounding the Tolyatti team. He emphasized their impressive capacity to remain resilient, noting their ability to score goals at home, especially against lesser opponents.
On the other side, CSKA Moscow arrives after successfully defeating Khimki 1-0, extending their unbeaten run to four matches—two wins and two draws. They are currently sixth on the table and are actively pursuing points to reposition themselves among the league’s elite. The team, managed by Marco Nikolic, has averaged excellent defensive displays, successfully keeping clean sheets for three consecutive matches, and showcasing the best defensive records within the league.
CSKA has been formidable on the road, remaining unbeaten over their last seven away games, which includes five wins and two draws. Statistically, they’ve scored either one or two goals per match, making them one of the league's teams to beat when playing away.
Remarkably, CSKA defeated Akron 4-0 earlier this season, demonstrating their attacking prowess and defensive strength, where they delivered 23 shots to Akron’s mere five. This prior encounter underlines the pressure and expectations placed on Akron to perform at their best today.
“If CSKA does not fail to realize their chances against one of the most conceding teams of the championship, then CSKA will score at least two goals,” agreed Genich. His predictions reveal the underlying fear for Akron—a team regarded among those with more significant defensive vulnerabilities.
The anticipated lineups reflect injuries affecting both squads. Akron’s projected five-man defense will look to thwart CSKA's varied attacks featuring players like Igor Akinfeev and Kristiyan Bistrovic, who each have had pivotal roles this season. The likely starting lineup for Akron includes Aleksandr Vasyutin, Konstantin Savichev, Ionuț Nedelcearu, João Escoval, Roberto Fernández, Ștefan Lončar, Maksim Kuzmin, Dmitry Pestryakov, Aleksa Djurasovic, Kirill Danilin, and Artem Dzyuba at the forefront of their attack.
The visiting side will field Igor Akinfeev, Kellven, Igor Diveev, Willian Rocha, Danil Krugovoy, Ivan Obljakov, Matvey Kislyak, Rifath Zhamaletdinov, Artem Shumanesky, Tamerlan Musayev, and Cristian Bistrović. They are expected to maintain their attacking integrity and pressure on Akron from the get-go.
With the spotlight on both teams, this match is seen as make-or-break for CSKA as they strive for the upper echelons of the league table. Akron, meanwhile, looks to capitalize on their home advantage and catch the army men off guard to secure important points against their challenging opponents.
Expectations are high, as both teams bring distinct strengths and weaknesses to the pitch. Fans are eager to see if the Tolyatti team can upset CSKA’s ambitions this Sunday.
Based on form, CSKA stands as the heavy favorite, and according to betting analysts, the odds favor them to not only win but potentially score multiple goals. Prediction wagers include CSKA triumph with over 2.5 goals combined, as both teams have shown the propensity to score and concede frequently throughout the season. Given Akron's recent results and CSKA’s continuous growth, the stage is set for an exhilarating match.