Anticipation builds as the Russian Premier League (RPL) prepares for one of its most exciting matches this weekend. On Saturday, March 15, 2025, Lokomotiv Moscow will face off against Dinamo Moscow at 19:30 Moscow time at the RZD Arena. Both teams are part of the league's elite, fighting fiercely for victory as they navigate through challenging times.
For Lokomotiv, the stakes are particularly high. The team has not won any of their last five RPL matches, with their last victory dating back to November 9, 2024. Their inability to secure wins is alarming, compounded by disappointing performances against rivals. Following painful defeats to Spartak (2:5) and setbacks against teams like Khimki (1:2), Lokomotiv has struggled to maintain its competitive edge. Despite battling through the season, they currently sit fifth with 37 points. Over 20 matches, they've conceded 28 goals, the worst defensive record among the top six teams.
Locomotiv's star player, Batrakov, shines bright amid the turmoil, racking up 11 goals and 6 assists to lead his team. While the offense shows promise—with Pinaev consistently creating opportunities—the defense continues to falter. Coach Mikhail Galaktionov is yet to find the right solutions to reinforce the defense, leading to expectations of yet another high-scoring contest as they prepare to clash with their city rivals.
On the opposing side, Dinamo has been riding high, currently sitting fourth on the table with 39 points. The white-blue squad has not faced defeat since October, showcasing their impressive form with thrilling victories, including dominant wins over teams like Makhachkala's Dinamo (4:0) and Khimki (4:1). Yet, the progress has not come without challenges, as they've recorded several frustrating draws. Notably, they had three 1-1 ties against tough competitors like Rostov, Fakel, and Akhmat.
While Dinamo's attacking line is the most effective, boasting 42 goals this season, they will be without key forward Konstantin Tyukavin, who suffered a torn cruciate ligament and is out for the remainder of the season. Coach Marcell Lička’s aggressive strategy has their attack remains formidable, but the team's defensive vulnerabilities could come back to haunt them; even against weaker opponents, Dinamo has shown signs of leaking goals, with expected goals (xG) statistics reflecting they could have conceded more.
Potential lineups for the match also highlight the available talents on both sides. Lokomotiv is expected to field Lanteratov, Nenakhov, Fasson, Montes, Ticknizyan, Karpukas, Godyaev, Rakov, Batrakov, Pinaev, and Vorobyev. Dinamo will assemble their roster with Leschuk, Caceres, Skopintsev, Kutik, Balbuena, Smelov, Carrascal, Fomin, Maukub, Gomez, and Gladyshev.
The last five head-to-head meetings reveal how intense this rivalry can get. Dinamo has defeated Lokomotiv twice recently and tied another match, showcasing their upper hand historically, particularly following their most recent outing, where Dinamo triumphed 2:0 on February 15, 2025, at the friendly level. This persists the anticipation of the derby clash, deemed exciting by pundits and players alike, as both teams aim to reclaim pride and push their league aspirations forward.
Given the current forms of both teams, it is highly likely we can expect another exciting match characterized by scoring opportunities. Experts anticipate both teams finding the back of the net, especially with the defensive frailties observed on both sides. Bettors should keep their eye on opportunities like 'both teams to score + total over 2.5 goals,' offering odds of 1.82, reflecting the high likelihood of offensive action throughout the match.
With both clubs eager to secure three points and solidify their standings as they approach this significant encounter, fans can expect not only excitement on the pitch but also the potential for thrilling moments amid the heart of this Moscow derby.