Olga Smorodskaya, the former president of Lokomotiv Moscow, cautions that discussions about a title chase with Zenit should come later. Her stance, echoed by Match TV, emphasizes patience during the early phase of the season and a focus on the immediate next steps rather than long-term goals. Smorodskaya’s point signals a measured approach, reminding fans and analysts that the campaign is still in its infancy and that premature conclusions can mislead evaluations of the club’s trajectory.
She noted that the season is just beginning and that only six rounds have been completed. The early part of the campaign has already produced meaningful results, but there is a long road ahead before any verdict on the championship is rendered. Her comments underline a prudent mindset, encouraging supporters to let the season unfold while Lokomotiv gathers momentum and analyzes its performances week by week.
After a dramatic 3:2 victory over Rostov at home in the sixth round, Lokomotiv climbed to the top of the Russian Premier League table. This result came as a statement from Mikhail Galaktionov’s squad, which had started the campaign with a pair of wins and has shown resilience in the early meetings. The champions, Zenit of St. Petersburg, have also shown strength by opening the season with a string of victories and sharing the lead in the standings at different moments. The table currently has Lokomotiv just one point ahead of Zenit, highlighting how tightly contested the race remains and how every match can reshape the top positions.
Upcoming action promises a significant test. Lokomotiv is slated to face Krasnodar in the next round of the Russian Championship. The match is scheduled to take place on September 1 at the RZD Arena in Moscow, with the kickoff set for 19:45 local time. The venue adds a familiar backdrop for the team as they aim to build continuity and extend their recent form. The clash against Krasnodar is not merely another fixture; it represents an opportunity to consolidate leadership, pressure a direct rival, and solidify the club’s approach as the season progresses through its demanding schedule.
A former Lokomotiv defender weighed in on the club’s prospects, offering a perspective rooted in experience. That veteran believes the team possesses the quality and depth needed to compete for the title, provided they maintain cohesion, resolve, and tactical flexibility. The defender’s assessment reflects the belief that success hinges on consistent performances across different competitions, balanced preparation, and the ability to adapt to changes in opponents’ strategies as the campaign unfolds.