Neftekhimik vs Yenisey

Judging by Neftekhimik’s recent results at their home ground in Nizhnekamsk, it’s difficult to even label the team as true “hosts.” Kirill Novikov’s squad has been overly hospitable this season, playing 5 matches in front of their home crowd without securing a single victory.

Recent Form and Squad Issues

The previous away fixture against Ural ended in a 1:1 draw for Neftekhimik. This might seem like a decent result against one of the league leaders; however, Ural was significantly weakened by personnel problems in that match, and Neftekhimik only managed to salvage a single point. The team appears to be in a profound crisis, having secured only one win in nine rounds. With the current low level of performance displayed by Kirill Novikov’s players, the team will most likely find itself battling to avoid relegation.

Limited Transfer Window Activity

Notably, just before the transfer window closed, Neftekhimik only managed to bolster their squad with Ivan Bobr from Krylia Sovetov, son of the well-known former footballer Anton Bobr. This acquisition seems quite modest considering the team’s current challenging situation.

Yenisey has shown signs of life following a dismal start to the season. Andrey Tikhonov’s charges failed to secure a single victory in their initial five rounds, enduring three consecutive home defeats. However, the nightmare for the Krasnoyarsk side ended in Novorossiysk, where they claimed their first win of the season in the sixth round, followed by another. This turnaround led many experts to speak of the team rising from the ashes. Yet, Yenisey fans’ joy was short-lived; after a four-match unbeaten streak, the Krasnoyarsk team lost 2:0 away to Rodina in the previous round, a deserved defeat.

Current Team Capabilities

Nevertheless, it’s important to acknowledge their rather successful recent period. A single setback in Moscow doesn’t change the overall picture. The team is vibrant and has gradually learned to play for results against mid-table and lower-tier teams, though they are not yet ready to compete on equal terms with the leading clubs of the FNL.