Dynamo Makhachkala is set to face Lokomotiv Moscow on March 11, 2025, as the two clubs clash in the FONBET Russian Cup quarter-finals at the Anzhi Arena located in Kaspiysk. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00 Moscow time.
This significant match will be broadcast live on the Match TV channel and can also be followed through online platforms like matchtv.ru and sportbox.ru. Vasily Kazartsev will take charge as the main referee for the evening's encounters.
Bookmakers have designated Lokomotiv Moscow as the favorite to secure victory, with odds listed at 2.0 for the team’s win during the match's regular time. Meanwhile, Dynamo Makhachkala's chances of winning are valued at 4.3. This indicates betting confidence toward the Moscow team, which has shown resilient form early on this season.
Interestingly, these teams are no strangers to each other having already met recently. Their last clash took place on February 28, 2025, during the 19th round of the Russian Premier League, which ended in a 1:1 draw. Dynamo started strong, leading the match until the late stages when Dmitry Vorobyov equalized for Lokomotiv, reflecting the intense rivalry and competitiveness between the two sides.
Reflecting on past performances, Dynamo Makhachkala suffered from heavy defeat individually just days prior to this quarter-final, falling to Moscow Dynamo 0:4. This recent setback may weigh on the team as they prepare to put on their best performance against Lokomotiv, which has demonstrated sharper offensive play led by their midfielder Aleksey Batrakov, who netted 11 goals this season.
Lokomotiv has also faced challenges recently. Following the draw with Dynamo Makhachkala, they were unable to capitalize on home advantage against Ahmat, ending again level without finding the winning goal. The attacking woes have raised concerns among fans, particularly as several opportunities to strengthen their frontline during the winter transfer window passed without new signings.
With the match being knockout format, both teams know any slip-ups could lead to elimination. Should the match end level, it will proceed directly to penalties to determine who advances to the next round — heightening the stakes even more.
This game is particularly notable as it showcases the excitement and unpredictability of the Russian Cup competitions. Teams across different divisions aim for glory, and the one-match format means anything can happen. Spectators are expecting high energy and potentially dramatic moments as both clubs vie for advancement.
Lokomotiv is viewed not only as current favorites for this match but is also considered among the frontrunners for the whole tournament, particularly as the reigning champions, Zenit, will contest their semifinals following this round. Dynamo Makhachkala, on the other hand, seeks to make its mark as underdogs, having successfully seen off their previous opponent, Sochi, through penalties after their last match-up.
With high hopes and intense rivalries, fans are gearing up for what promises to be another thrilling installment of the Russian Cup saga. The hosts' support might be key for Dynamo as they aim to convert the home advantage, along with the wild card of home ground familiarity, to challenge the experienced hands of the Muscovites.
The countdown continues as all eyes turn to Kaspiysk, where ambitions run high and every kick could change the fate of teams involved. Will Dynamo Makhachkala defy the odds and advance, or will Lokomotiv Moscow solidify their stature as favorites and march forward? Only time will tell, but the anticipation is palpable.
The game is more than just another match; it's another chapter written in the enduring saga of Russian football lineage, packed with drama, excitement, and unyielding hope. Join us to see who claims victory tonight.