In a recent interview with socialbites.ca, Boris Ignatiev, formerly at the helm of the Russian national team, analyzed Artem Dzyuba’s performance during the clash between Lokomotiv and Krasnodar in the 20th round of the Russian Premier League. The veteran coach offered his take on how the striker influenced the game and why his impact goes beyond just scoring.
Ignatiev emphasized that the 34-year-old forward has not yet tapped into the full spectrum of his abilities for Lokomotiv. He noted that Dzyuba is still finding his best form, moving with intent and actively scanning for opportunities to contribute. Even in moments when the tempo is high, the striker remains a central figure for the club, trusted to stretch defenses and create space for teammates to exploit.
According to Ignatiev, Dzyuba brings a set of concrete strengths to the team. His ability to hold the ball under pressure allows Lokomotiv to draw the attention of the opponent’s back line, creating pockets of space for nearby players and making the attack more dynamic. This link-up play helps others to press forward or drop into advantageous positions, depending on how the defense responds to the ball carrier.
The coach highlighted Dzyuba’s aerial prowess and his knack for winning important aerial duels, a quality that often serves as a reliable weapon in set-piece situations and cross-heavy attacks. Securing those aerials not only relieves pressure but also generates second-chance opportunities and keeps the ball within attacking reach for teammates who are ready to pounce on loose balls.
Most importantly, Ignatiev pointed out that Dzyuba consistently contributes to the scoreboard. Regardless of how the roles and performances are described, the striker’s decisive finish in critical moments is what sealed the outcome for Lokomotiv. His goal not only added to the tally but also shifted momentum in a tightly contested match, providing the home side with a crucial three points.
That encounter finished with Lokomotiv edging Krasnodar in a dramatic 3-2 victory, a result the coach attributed in part to timely substitutions and strategic alterations that kept the pressure on the visitors. The substitutions helped redefine the pace of the game and allowed Lokomotiv to maintain an attacking tempo as their opponents tired, underscoring how depth and timely tactical changes can influence a close contest.
Ignatiev’s assessment underscores a broader lesson about modern football: a striker’s value isn’t measured solely by goals but by his ability to influence the structure of play. Dzyuba’s experience and physical presence offer Lokomotiv a reliable option who can both occupy defenders and unlock space for others. As the season progresses, the player’s continued development and integration into the team’s system are expected to bring additional rewards for the club and its supporters.