In a thrilling conclusion to the semi-final series of the Gagarin Cup, Traktor Chelyabinsk emerged victorious against Dynamo Moscow, clinching a 4-3 win in the decisive fifth match held on May 6, 2025. This victory not only secured Traktor a place in the finals but also marked a significant achievement as they won the series 4-1, showcasing their resilience and skill throughout the competition.
The match, played at the LA Traktor arena in Chelyabinsk, kicked off at 19:00 local time (17:00 Moscow time) and was filled with intense action that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Traktor's scoring was led by Maxim Shabanov, who netted two goals, along with contributions from Vasily Glotov and Nikita Korostelev. For Dynamo, Maxim Dzhioshvili and Brennan Menell each found the back of the net, but it wasn't enough to overcome the home team.
The game began with Dynamo taking an early lead, as Dzhioshvili scored just five minutes into the first period, assisted by Ozhiganov and Ilyenko, putting the visitors ahead 1-0. However, Traktor responded with a powerful performance in the second period, scoring three consecutive goals. Glotov equalized at 1-1 with a goal at 24:08, assisted by Tkachev. Shabanov then scored his first at 29:25, giving Traktor a 2-1 lead, before Korostelev extended their advantage to 3-1 at 33:12.
Dynamo fought back, with Menell scoring a power-play goal just before the end of the second period, bringing the score to 3-2. The excitement continued into the third period, where Dynamo's Shvets-Rogovoi scored at 55:20, leveling the game at 3-3 and igniting hopes for an overtime showdown. However, Traktor's Shabanov had other plans, scoring the game-winner at 58:32, sealing the match at 4-3.
With this victory, Traktor Chelyabinsk advances to the finals of the Gagarin Cup, where they will face Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, who defeated Salavat Yulaev in their semi-final series with a similar 4-1 scoreline. This matchup is particularly exciting as it pits the two conference champions against each other. Lokomotiv finished the regular season atop the KHL standings, while Traktor secured the top spot in the Eastern Conference.
The Gagarin Cup final series is set to commence on May 13, 2025, in Yaroslavl, promising to be an electrifying contest between two of the league's top teams. As the reigning champions, Metallurg Magnitogorsk, look on, both Traktor and Lokomotiv will be eager to claim the prestigious trophy.
Fans and analysts alike are buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming final, especially given the intense rivalry and competitive spirit displayed by both teams throughout the playoffs. Traktor's head coach expressed pride in his team's performance, stating, "We showed great character and determination to come back and win this series. Now, we must focus on preparing for Lokomotiv, who are a formidable opponent."
As the Gagarin Cup final approaches, both teams are expected to ramp up their preparations, with strategies being fine-tuned and players looking to elevate their game. The stakes are high, and the excitement surrounding the final is palpable as fans gear up for what promises to be a memorable clash.
In conclusion, Traktor Chelyabinsk's victory over Dynamo Moscow in the semi-finals not only highlights their skill and determination but also sets the stage for an exhilarating final against Lokomotiv Yaroslavl. With both teams boasting impressive records and a strong desire to win, hockey fans are in for a treat as the Gagarin Cup final unfolds.
