On March 23, 2025, in a highly anticipated KHL match, Neftekhimik will face Admiral on the ice, both teams aiming to secure crucial points as they navigate the playoff landscape in the Eastern Conference.
Neftekhimik, after playing 67 games in the KHL championship, has garnered 65 points and currently holds the ninth position in the Eastern Conference standings. With a total of 152 goals scored and 198 conceded, their record showcases both strength and weaknesses. Recent matches have seen Neftekhimik thrive, with four victories in the last five games, despite a substantial loss to Lada, where they were bested 1-7. Particularly notable is their home advantage, as Neftekhimik enters this game on a four-game winning streak, overcoming formidable teams such as SKA (4-3), Ak-Bars (3-2), Dynamo Moscow (4-3), and their latest victim, Admiral (2-1).
Conversely, Admiral has equally played 67 matches but has performed slightly better, netting 69 points and finding themselves in the seventh position in the same conference. However, it has been a rough patch for the team recently, suffering four consecutive losses against Barysa (4-5), Lokomotiv Moscow (1-4), Metallurg Magnitogorsk (4-5), and their recent defeat at the hands of Neftekhimik (1-2). Despite these setbacks, Admiral has shown resilience in their away games, boasting two wins in their last five outings against Barysa (4-2) and Sibir (5-2).
Experts have pointed out Neftekhimik as a slight favorite ahead of the match, crediting their good form and robust performance at home. Statistics underscore their superiority, as Neftekhimik has won four of the last five direct encounters against Admiral. This trend further cements them as the team to watch, especially given Admiral's struggles on the road, where they have lost three of their last five matches.
As the teams prepare to face off, the stakes are high for both squads. A victory for Neftekhimik could solidify their position within the playoff zone as they aim for a postseason berth. For Admiral, reversing their losing streak is critical if they wish to maintain their playoff hopes and re-establish their momentum.
Neftekhimik is expected to secure a win with a handicap of (-2), and analysts predict that both clubs will score more than 1.5 goals, suggesting an energetic and competitive matchup. The atmosphere will undoubtedly amplify as fans rally behind their teams, hoping to see their squads clinch essential victories.
This game is a pivotal moment for both teams in the KHL, and as they take to the ice, only one will emerge victorious, making this matchup a not-to-miss event!
