CSKA Moscow — Akron : Match Preview and Prediction for August 24,2025

CSKA Moscow’s Strong Season Start

CSKA Moscow has certainly kicked off their season on a high note. The capital club has already secured silverware, defeating Krasnodar in the Russian Super Cup. Their league form is equally impressive, with 11 points accumulated after five rounds, placing them third in the table. Formally, CSKA has only lost one match, and ironically, their lone defeat came against Akron, who bested the “Army Men” beyond regular time in the Russian Cup just under two weeks ago.

Opportunity for Revenge

Now, CSKA has an excellent opportunity for revenge. They approach this renewed clash with Akron in high spirits, having convincingly beaten Dynamo Moscow 3-1 away in their last RPL fixture. A derby victory provides a significant boost for the Army Men, making them deserved heavy favorites for this encounter against Akron.

Home Advantage and Previous Encounter Details

It’s worth noting that in their previous Russian Cup meeting, CSKA held a clear advantage: they controlled possession for 66% of the time, unleashed 22 shots with 14 on target, yet only scored once before ultimately losing in a penalty shootout. However, CSKA is expected to secure a decisive victory on their home turf. Their home stadium is a formidable advantage for the Army Men; this season, CSKA has won all three home matches in front of their fans with a combined score of 9-3, even against strong opponents like Akhmat, Rubin, and Lokomotiv. Furthermore, CSKA won their only previous home encounter against Akron with a resounding 4-0 scoreline.

Akron’s Promising Start and Recent Setback

Akron began this season remarkably well, remaining undefeated in their first six matches: they overcame Sochi, Baltika, and, beyond regular time, managed to beat CSKA, while also drawing with Krylia Sovetov, Spartak, and Makhachkala Dynamo. However, in their latest RPL match, the Tolyatti-based side unexpectedly stumbled, losing 1-2 at home to Orenburg. Notably, in the clash against the “Gasmen,” Akron led until the 59th minute but then conceded twice, leaving them without points. Orenburg’s victory was well-deserved; they generated 1.90 xG and won fairly.

Upcoming Challenge in Moscow

Following their defeat to Orenburg, Akron now faces a trip to CSKA. The Tolyatti team recently managed to defeat the Muscovites at home in a penalty shootout, but that match featured half-strength squads. Today, Akron will have to contend with CSKA’s full-strength lineup. Withstanding them in Moscow will be extremely difficult. It’s important to remember that Akron’s only previous visit to the Army Men in the capital ended in a comprehensive 0-4 defeat. While the Tolyatti side might not lose by such a large margin this time, confidence in their success remains low.

Akron’s Playing Style and CSKA’s Adaptability

Overall, Akron is a pleasure to watch, especially for neutral spectators. Despite having a squad that is inferior to most top teams, they are not afraid to play open, fast-paced football, which often yields results. However, there are downsides; Orenburg, for instance, frequently punished Akron’s adventurous style by finding open spaces in their half, ultimately scoring their two goals. CSKA is an equally flexible but far more skilled team, and they will undoubtedly have learned from their mistakes after the loss in the first head-to-head match of the season. This time, the visitors are unlikely to find any joy.