FC Nizhny Novgorod — Akron : Match Preview and Prediction for October 18,2025

Team Form and Manager’s Philosophy

Parin Nizhny Novgorod, under Aleksey Shpilevsky, adopts an aggressive, open style of play. There’s a strong impression that the players are not entirely suited to the tactical demands of the former Aris Limassol coach. Nizhny Novgorod’s game appears somewhat adventurous, though it’s undeniably entertaining for spectators. Nevertheless, 8 defeats in their last 9 games, including cup fixtures, is, to put it mildly, a very disappointing outcome.

Recent Struggles and Crucial Period Ahead

Moreover, before the international break, Pari NN managed to lose 1-2 away to Sochi, effectively gifting their opponents their first victory of the season. Currently in 15th place, the period from October to November, leading up to the next international fixtures, could prove decisive for the Belarusian manager’s future at Pari NN, despite his rejection of dismissal rumors even after the loss to the southerners. He stated that “if all rumors were true, he would have committed suicide long ago.” The upcoming match against Akron is extremely important for the hosts, with only Aleksandr Ektov expected to be unavailable for Nizhny Novgorod.

Akron’s Performance and Managerial Stability

At Akron, there are no discussions about dismissing Tedeev, even though the team’s performance is only marginally better than the hosts’. Nevertheless, results have been disappointing following their 9th-place finish in their debut RPL season. Akron is 2 points ahead of Nizhny Novgorod, currently occupying 13th place, but Togliatti’s recent form is also far from impressive.

Recent Form and New Signings

Eight defeats in 10 games, including cup matches, are certainly not a source of pride. However, before the international break, the ‘Red-Blacks’ unexpectedly managed to draw with Zenit (1-1) in Samara, with Dzyuba missing a penalty in added time that would have secured a victory. New reinforcements have arrived (Rocha, Bistrovic, Sevikyan, Agapov), but they are still adapting to the team and Tedeev’s tactical requirements. All visiting players are reported to be ready for the match in Nizhny Novgorod.