Rostov’s defeat against Zenit Saint Petersburg has sparked diverse reactions from players and coaches alike, as hopes remain for the return leg of the Russian Cup semi-final.
On March 13, 2025, Khoren Bayramyan, FC Rostov’s midfielder and captain, spoke candidly about the emotional impact of the match, particularly after seeing supportive banners from fans. "This is top class! Will they give it to me? Where would I keep it? (Laughs.) Honestly, it’s incredible. This love from the fans is mutual. I’m overwhelmed with feelings. My mom wrote to me saying she was teary. It’s really touching. But I can tell you, the fans and this stadium are my home," Bayramyan noted in his interview with Renat Daynutdinov from 161.RU.
Rostov faced Zenit at home for the first leg of the RPL Regions Cup semi-final, suffering a close 1-0 loss. Mateo Cassierra netted the only goal of the match on the 79th minute, capitalizing on the opportunities presented by both teams. This loss marks the first defeat for head coach Jonatan Alba since his appointment. "Football can be unfair. Both teams had their chances. Everything will be decided in the second match," he stated during the press conference following the match.
Looking forward, FC Rostov is scheduled to play against Krasnodar on March 16, 2025, as they fight to climb up the league standing, currently placed seventh. Bayramyan, reflecting on the cup situation, expressed optimism. "I think that's the beauty of the Cup: it's very unpredictable, anything can happen. Losing 0-1 doesn't mean we’ve lost our chances. We still have them," he remarked.
Aleksey Sutormin, also from Rostov, echoed similar sentiments during his interview with Match TV, stating, "Despite the loss, we hope to advance as far as we can in the tournament. We still have a return leg to play, and we’ll aim to convert our chances". Sutormin described the match as challenging, reflecting the traditional intensity of cup competitions where neither team wishes to yield.
The return match against Zenit is set for April 16, 2025, and both players and fans are holding onto hope for different outcomes. "It’s not over until it’s over, and we are determined to make the most of the next match," Sutormin added.
On the injury front, Brazilian forward Ronaldo shared updates after his substitution during the match against Zenit. "I’m fine. It’s just a minor injury. It’s normal when you play two games within three or four days," he remarked, clearing concerns about his fitness going forward.
With spirits buoyed by fan support and players’ unwavering belief, FC Rostov is gearing up for their next challenges. The response from fans remains strong, as they continue to rally behind their team both at home and away. The sentiment expressed by the players underlines the emotional stakes of cup competitions where every match can shift team fortunes.
The upcoming game against Krasnodar will not only serve as another opportunity for Rostov to showcase their determination but also help them gain valuable momentum as they prepare for their second shot at Zenit later next month.
Rostov aims to leverage the home advantage when they face Krasnodar, hoping to secure much-needed points as they navigate the league’s competitive environment. The resilience exhibited by the team, coupled with player enthusiasm, may just be the formula for overcoming the recent setback.
For the fans, the camaraderie and connection with players like Bayramyan and Sutormin reaffirm their loyalty. With the promise of high stakes and exciting football on the horizon, supporters can expect their team to push toward potential success with passion and grit.
While the first leg against Zenit was disappointing, the second leg promises to bring new hopes. Whether FC Rostov will respond adequately to the directions from head coach Jonatan Alba and claim victory remains to be seen, but the fight within the club persists strongly.
Rostov’s footballing future hangs not just on tactics and strategies but on the indefatigable spirit of its players and the unwavering support of its fans.