As the Russian Premier League’s 2024/2025 season kicks off, all eyes are on the highly anticipated clash between FC Rostov and CSKA Moscow. Set for Saturday, July 20th, at the Rostov Arena, this match promises to set the tone for both clubs’ campaigns.
Rostov, coming off a respectable seventh-place finish last season, have been quietly bolstering their squad. The addition of Tajikistan international Rustam Yatimov addresses their goalkeeping needs, while midfielders Rodrigo Saravia and Konstantin Kuchaev bring fresh energy to the center of the park.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing for the home side. Alexey Mironov, a key figure in midfield, remains sidelined with a long-term knee injury, leaving a gap in Valeri Karpin’s tactical plans.
CSKA Moscow, perennial title contenders, have undergone significant changes during the off-season. The appointment of Marko Nikolic as head coach signals a new era for the club. Known for his tactical acumen, Nikolic’s impact on the team’s style will be closely watched.
The capital club hasn’t been shy in the transfer market either. Danil Krugovoy, Rifat Zhemaletdinov, and Sékou Koita have all joined the ranks, adding depth and quality to an already formidable squad.
CSKA will be without Abbos Fayzullaev, who’s on national duty with Uzbekistan preparing for the Olympics. Maksim Mukhin is also unavailable, still recovering from a knee injury, though he’s expected back by month’s end.
Recent history favors the visitors, with CSKA undefeated in their last ten encounters against Rostov across all competitions. However, their last three visits to the Rostov Arena have ended in draws, suggesting a closely fought contest could be on the cards.
Interestingly, CSKA have found the net at least twice in nine of their last eleven matches against Rostov, hinting at the potential for a high-scoring affair. The Moscow side’s attacking prowess will be put to the test against Rostov’s traditionally strong home form.
As kick-off approaches, both teams will be acutely aware of the importance of starting the season strongly. Will Rostov’s home advantage prove decisive, or will CSKA’s quality shine through?
The probable lineups for the match are as follows:
FC Rostov (4-3-3): Yatimov, Vakhania, Osipenko, Saravia, Chernov, Sako, Glebov, Bayramyan, Shchetinin, Golenkov, Ronaldo.
CSKA Moscow (3-5-2): Akinfeev, Diveev, Rocha, Moisés, Khellven, Zhemaletdinov, Musaev, Oblyakov, Krugovoy, Chalov, Bistrovic.
With both sides harboring ambitions of European qualification, this opening day fixture could set the tone for their respective campaigns. As the teams make their final preparations, all eyes will be on how quickly CSKA adapts to Nikolic’s tactics and whether Rostov can capitalize on any early-season uncertainty.
The stage is set for an enthralling encounter as the Russian Premier League roars back to life. Football fans across the country eagerly await the 18:00 kickoff, ready to witness the first chapter of what promises to be an exciting season ahead.
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