Evgeny Aldonin, a former CSKA Moscow midfielder, shared his expectations ahead of the 28th round clash between CSKA and Spartak in the Russian Premier League (RPL). He weighed CSKA’s chances of climbing onto the podium and securing a silver medal in the current season, reflecting on the team’s trajectory as it heads into a crucial period of the campaign.
“The derby is a turning point for both clubs,” Aldonin remarked. He noted that head coach Vladimir Fedotov has genuine optimism about a second-place finish for CSKA, but stressed that the outcome hinges on performances across the remaining fixtures. The road ahead demands consistency, sharp execution, and an ability to translate training into match-day results. There is a viable path to a high finish if the players maintain focus and momentum, he suggested.
As the league standings stand, the army club appears stronger than its storied rival on current form. Yet Aldonin warned against underestimating the derby’s intensity. He described the match as a test of nerves, tactics, and temperament, with everything on the line for both teams as they push toward the late stage of the season.
The anticipated derby between Spartak and CSKA is scheduled for May 21, with kickoff set for 16:30 Moscow time. Fans and analysts alike will be watching how each side lines up, how the midfield battles unfold, and which defense can withstand the pressure of a high-stakes city showdown.
After 27 rounds in the RPL, CSKA sits in second place with 54 points, while Spartak occupies fourth with 50 points. Rostov sits a step behind the top two after closing the top three, making this an especially tight chase for the runners-up spot and a possible qualification path for European competition in the following season. The competitive context adds extra weight to every possession and decision in the derbies and late-season fixtures, amplifying the significance of the 28th week’s results.
In related commentary, Valery Novikov, a former CSKA goalkeeper and member of the USSR national team, weighed in on the strategic considerations for the derby. He emphasized that the army team needs a well-thought-out plan for the 28th round, with attention to fixture fatigue, squad rotation, and the psychological edge that comes from preparation and experience. Novikov highlighted Fedotov’s proven track record in leading CSKA through high-pressure matches, praising the coach’s ability to balance defensive solidity with attacking ambition. The assessment underscored the ongoing belief within the club that disciplined planning and a clear game plan can unlock favorable outcomes in this classic heavyweight clash and beyond, especially as the calendar tightens.
Overall, the pulse around the derby reflects a broader conversation about CSKA’s potential finish, the resilience of the squad, and the ways in which tactical setup can influence late-season performances. Observers point to the importance of building momentum in the weeks ahead, preserving key players’ fitness, and leveraging home advantage where possible to maximize results as the battle for silver medals intensifies.