Vitaly Kafanov, the goalkeeper coach for Rostov and the Russian national team, hailed Matvey Safonov as the standout shot-stopper in the first half of the current Russian Premier League season. Speaking to Sports Express, Kafanov emphasized Safonov’s consistent excellence across both club duties for Krasnodar and his duties with the national team, noting that the youngster has been at or near his peak in every important moment so far this campaign.
“The best goalkeeper in the RPL? If we consider Safonov’s performances for Krasnodar and his contributions in the national team, he has delivered at the highest level in both arenas,” Kafanov commented. His words reflect a growing consensus around a keeper who has combined reliability with eye-catching reflexes and composure under pressure. The praise comes as Safonov builds a reputation not just as Krasnodar’s last line of defense but as a growing national prospect whose trajectory aligns with a team-first mind-set and a readiness to step up on the big stage. (Source: Sports Express)
Safonov is a product of Krasnodar’s development system, a club that has trusted him since his ascent began. He made his RPL debut in 2017 against Amkar and, in that match, did not concede a goal, marking an immediate impact on the league stage. Over the years he has evolved into Krasnodar’s first-choice goalkeeper, a role that has seen him record eight clean sheets this season alone. His steady presence has become a cornerstone of Krasnodar’s defensive structure and a source of confidence for teammates, coaches, and supporters alike. (Source: Sports Express)
As Krasnodar approached the winter break, they sat atop the RPL table with 38 points. In the 18th round, Vladimir Ivich’s squad edged CSKA Moscow 1-0 to reinforce their position at the summit. Zenit St. Petersburg sat two points behind, while Dinamo Moscow occupied the third spot on 32 points. The early-season form has conjured a sense of optimism around Krasnodar, underscored by Safonov’s goalkeeping displays which have helped the side secure valuable results and maintain momentum heading into the second half of the campaign. (Source: Sports Express)
Meanwhile, there have been subtle undercurrents off the field involving former Krasnodar players and their locker room dynamics following the CSKA victory. Reports surfaced indicating some tension and disruption within the team’s changing area, a reminder that success can amplify rivalry and emotion among players who once shared the project. Even amid such chatter, the focus for Krasnodar remains on delivering performances that translate to league standings and European opportunities as the season progresses. (Source: Sports Express)