Lokomotiv Moscow — Akron : Match Preview and Prediction for August 28,2025

Recent Form and League Standings

Lokomotiv Moscow has recently shown a slight dip in form, losing some of their initial momentum and dropping points in the Russian Premier League. Their draw against Rostov (3-3), despite leading 2-0 with Batrakov contributing a goal and an assist, marks their second consecutive dropped points after a 1-1 draw with Baltika in Kaliningrad. This suggests a minor slowdown after a strong start to the season.

Cup Ambitions and Team News

Nevertheless, the ‘Red-Greens’ currently hold a top-three position in the championship, trailing the leader by only one point, so there’s no major cause for concern in the league. However, in the Cup, the hosts definitely need to improve their standing. They are currently third in Group D, one point behind an RPL play-off spot. Their Cup campaign started with a 1-2 loss to CSKA but was followed by a solid 2-0 home victory against Baltika. Now, defeating Akron at home is crucial for them to secure a top-two position in the group. The current situation is favorable for this, with all players except Pinyaev available for selection against the Tolyatti side.

Akron’s Recent Struggles and Public Criticism

Akron Tolyatti’s recent form has been concerning. Following an unexpected 1-2 home defeat to Orenburg in Samara, they then predictably succumbed 1-3 to CSKA, with the scoreline set early in the second half. This poor run prompted Artyom Dzyuba to publicly urge the club’s management to seek reinforcements, stating that competing for the bottom half of the table with the current squad ‘is not good enough’.

Squad Rotation and Defensive Concerns

The fact remains that the ‘Red-Blacks’ have somewhat faltered amidst a packed schedule of matches. While they have a decent five points in the Cup, primarily earned from home fixtures, it’s highly probable that Tedeev will opt for squad rotation when they visit Cherkizovo. The visitors’ defense has shown a lack of organization, and they are set to face a challenging opponent, which is why the Tolyatti club is rightfully listed as an underdog by bookmakers. Benshimol and Khosonov will definitely miss the match against Lokomotiv, and Artyom Dzyuba is also not expected to feature in Cup games, significantly diminishing the attacking potential of the visiting side.