Former CSKA Moscow and USSR defender criticizes Ivan Oblyakov’s form ahead of big Moscow derby
Vladimir Ponomarev, known for his years defending the colors of CSKA Moscow and the Soviet national team, spoke candidly in an interview with socialbites.ca about Ivan Oblyakov. The midfielder, a figure associated with the army club, has reportedly scaled back the impact he used to bring to the field when representing the national team. Observers note that Oblyakov sometimes delivers important touches, yet his overall pace and influence have diminished since the last season. Ponomarev emphasizes that the level expected from a national team contributor has not consistently shown up for the national squad, and that what remains is a player who can execute passes and occasionally shoot, but without the flair or decisive plays that characterized his peak performances.
Ponomarev pointed out that while Oblyakov is capable with his left foot and can contribute with distribution and moments of goal threat, the aggregate impact on matches is not at the level that would guarantee a regular spot in the national team lineup. He stresses the difference between occasional useful moves and sustained, game-changing actions that national team coaches look for in midfielders who must influence both construction play and pressing in high-stakes moments. The former defender’s assessment reflects a broader conversation around consistency, form, and the demanding standards of international football.
CSKA Moscow will host Spartak Moscow in the 21st round of the Russian Premier League, a fixture that had been rescheduled in the wake of the presidential elections in Russia. The match is set to be played on April 25, with kick-off at 20:30 Moscow time. This encounter carries significant weight within the league standings and offers Oblyakov a stage to demonstrate renewed form and impact, while CSKA seeks to solidify its position in the battle for European qualification spots and maintain momentum in a tightly contested title race. The derby is more than a local grudge match; it is a test of character for players and coaches who carry the weight of expectations from fans, staff, and the media alike.
At the moment, CSKA sits in sixth place in the national championship with 37 points, just one point behind Lokomotiv in fourth and Spartak in fifth. The tight gap underscores how a single good run—whether through Oblyakov’s execution, a revival in team cohesion, or tactical tweaks—could shift the dynamic across the table. For CSKA, every league fixture is an opportunity to reassert themselves as a formidable force capable of challenging the league’s traditional powerhouses. Observers will be watching not only the result but how the midfield unit, including Oblyakov, contributes to the tempo, ball progression, and defensive balance that determines success in such a high-stakes match.
In a lighter footnote, there was talk around Fedora Chalov—a playful reference that circulated in name parody among fans and analysts—reminding everyone of the unique humor and banter that surround football culture in the capital. While such chatter travels quickly across social platforms, the real focus remains on on-field performance, strategic decisions, and the enduring pursuit of excellence that defines modern football in Russia’s top league.