On December 27, 2024, Kunlun Red Star achieved a thrilling victory over Spartak Moscow, defeating them 4-2 at Arena Mytishchi, Moscow region. The match marked a significant turning point for the Chinese team, which has been struggling throughout the KHL season. With this win, Kunlun improved their standings, finally showing some resilience on the ice.
The match was eagerly anticipated, especially following their previous encounter where Spartak had dominated Kunlun with a decisive 5-1 victory on November 10. Both teams entered the ice with contrasting fortunes; Spartak sat solidly at second place with 53 points, whereas Kunlun was languishing at the tenth position with only 34 points before the match.
The game commenced energetically, and it was Kunlun who opened the scoring. Just 5 minutes and 34 seconds in, Yaroslav Likhachov found the back of the net, quickly raising expectations for Kunlun supporters. But the lead did not last long as Spartak responded fiercely. Pavel Poryadin scored early on, equalizing the match at 1-1 just 2 minutes and 35 seconds after Likhachov's goal, leveling the proceedings and thrilling fans on both sides.
By the end of the first period, the teams remained deadlocked at 1-1. The intensity continued through the second period, where Spartak took control. Utilizing their strategic plays and physicality, Spartak seized the advantage when Dimitri Vishnevsky scored on the power play, putting his team up 2-1. The goal marked Vishnevsky's effort leveraging his experience on the ice as he was pivotal during this period.
While pressing forward, Spartak looked poised to extend their lead, and it seemed they were preparing for victory. Kunlun, having faced multiple challenges throughout the game, needed to rally their spirits as they went back to the dressing room after losing their edge.
Everything changed during the third period. Under the skilled leadership of coach Mikhail Kravtsov, Kunlun shifted gear. They capitalized on the momentum when Spencer Foo, the star of the match, scored back-to-back goals. His goals came at pivotal moments, first at 51:56, equalizing the game at 2-2, and then again at 57:12, putting Kunlun gorilla's grip on the game.
With the crowd behind them, Kunlun's players surged for the final push, and as time dwindled, they sealed their victory with Foo netting his second and the fourth for Kunlun on the empty net with just 4 seconds remaining. The final score echoed through the seats at the Arena Mytishchi: Kunlun 4, Spartak 2. It was not merely a victory; it was revenge for their earlier defeat. The atmosphere was electric as fans celebrated.
This match was significant not only for the scoreboard but also revealed character and potential for the struggling Kunlun team. Their performance registered within the league, showing they could challenge teams above them, and marked Kravtsov’s 350th game as KHL coach with great pomp.
With Kunlun finally showing promise, they will look to carry this momentum forward. Their next challenge looms against Torpedo on December 30, and they might just build upon this victory. Spartak, on the other hand, must regroup quickly as they head to face Vityaz the following day. With positions tightening up in the Western Conference, every point will count.
The match showcased the unpredictability of hockey, reminding enthusiasts of the excitement of the KHL. Both teams provided passionate efforts, but it was Kunlun who got the much-needed win, signaling they may still fight their way back to contention.
