The Russian Football League saw CSKA Moscow claim victory over Akron Tolyatti with a 2-1 result on March 16, 2025, marking another step up the standings for the army club. The match showcased the return of Artem Dzyuba, who played for Akron for the first time since being called up to the national team. Dzyuba, who had scored three goals across three official games this year, was expected to continue his scoring streak but faced challenges throughout the match.
Despite winning the match, CSKA faced stiff competition from Akron, who approached the game with newfound tactics under head coach Zaurbek Tedeev, shifting to three central defenders. This defensive strategy aimed to stifle CSKA's attack, especially with prominent players on the field. Dmitri Glebov made his first-ever professional start as one of two forwards positioned above CSKA's midfield diamond, surprising fans and analysts alike.
During the first half, CSKA maintained slight ball control but failed to capitalize significantly on goal-scoring opportunities. Akron's Mарат Бокоев was among those who squandered notable chances, heading wide from close range. On CSKA's side, Saul Guarirapa struggled to convert opportunities, allowing Glebov to shine, as he scored the opening goal following a corner kick. Glebov's well-timed header after CSKA's second attempt at the corner reflected his instincts as he struck the ball beautifully.
After halftime, the teams adopted a more direct and open playing style, leading to heightened excitement on the pitch. Guarirapa more than made up for his missed chance by scoring his first goal for CSKA—another pivotal turning point. Following some clever play with the ball, he received it from Akinfeev and fired it conclusively to the far corner, beating Akron goalkeeper Sergey Volkov.
What appeared to be a commanding situation for CSKA was abruptly interrupted when Akron responded five minutes later to pull one back. A well-executed set piece, delivered by Kuzmin and finished by substitute Khubulov, showcased Akron’s determination to remain competitive.
Akron’s tenacity was evident as they sought to equalize and had their best moment when Dzyuba provided the assist to Khubulov after breaking free from CSKA's defense. Fearlessly, Khubulov attempted to beat Akinfeev but failed to convert. The match remained tense as CSKA continued to press forward, bringing on fresh legs including Musaev and Faizullayev, who provided important offensive support.
The fight for victory saw several moments of heroism, particularly from Akron’s Volkov, whose outstanding saves often kept his side within reach of the points. His exceptional performance, particularly deflecting Guarirapa’s powerful shot onto the crossbar, garnered him praise, though Akinfeev's lower goals conceded and assist earned him recognition as the game's standout.
The match concluded with CSKA three points richer, solidifying their standing just below the league's top five, whereas Akron settled comfortably mid-table. Meanwhile, spectators enjoyed the camaraderie among the players, evidencing growth and competition across the pitch.
Flipping the gaze to the national scope, the Russian national team is gearing up for its upcoming friendly matches against Grenada and Zambia. Defender Alexander Silyanov expressed his insights on the opponents, sharing his knowledge of both Grenada and Zambia even before the teams were announced. He mentioned this during interactions with reporters following his selection to the national team under head coach Valery Karpin.
These fixtures are significant as the last time the national team played was back on November 19, 2023, when they secured a dominant 4-0 victory over Syria. With the matches set to happen on March 19 and March 25, 2025, both taking place at the Dynamo Stadium in Moscow, many look forward to seeing how this resurgence could play out, especially with Dzyuba’s inclusion being the focal point of supporters' expectations.
Silyanov, with excitement, stated, “I was aware of countries like Grenada and Zambia before the national team announced their opponents. I am happy the games will be held right here in Moscow.” Conversations surrounding Dzyuba’s latest endeavors continue to ignite excitement among fans, following him surpassing Alexander Kerzhakov to become the all-time top scorer among Russian footballers, recording 234 goals and scoring during recent competitions.
Indicative of the current form of the Russian national team, they've achieved significant victories, including decisive wins over strong teams, which places them as strong favorites heading toward the Grenada match. Industry predictions suggest the team might celebrate another dominant victory.
With Dzyuba fully returned to the international fold and displaying form, the upcoming matches against Grenada and Zambia may well serve as platforms for him to regain his rhythm as well as strengthen the national team’s stature on the international stage. Fans are eager to see how the story will progress, as excitement builds around Dzyuba’s performance and contributions to the national team.