In a Moscow derby that drew fierce emotions, Spartak Moscow’s Paraguayan midfielder Jesus Medina discussed his decision to celebrate the goal he struck against his former club CSKA, during the 11th round of the Russian Premier League. His remarks, cited by Sports Express, shed light on how he viewed the moment and his current club allegiance.
“It was a hard game, a true derby. Why did I celebrate? This is football. I have respect for CSKA; I was part of that team. But I scored, I must keep playing. Now I belong to Spartak. There’s nothing more to it,” Medina stated, emphasizing the practical nature of the celebration within the context of professional football.
Medina transferred from CSKA to Spartak over the summer transfer window and featured in the 90+7th minute of the October 8 clash. His late strike helped level the score for Spartak, underscoring his immediate impact after switching sides.
The match unfolded at the Otkritie Bank Arena in Moscow, finishing in a 2-2 draw. Milan Gaich produced a brace for the army club, while Quincy Promes also found the net for Spartak, contributing to a tense and memorable encounter between the rivals.
After 11 rounds of the current Russian Championship, Spartak sits in fifth place with 17 points, while CSKA occupies eighth position, tied on points but trailing on tiebreakers. The teams are scheduled to meet again later in the season during the 21st round of the league, though the exact date and kickoff time have not yet been announced.
A former Spartak player voiced concern about the intensity of emotions surrounding the CSKA derby, suggesting that the rivalry’s heat could test players beyond ordinary competition. The ongoing back-and-forth between the clubs continues to draw attention from fans and analysts alike, highlighting how derby clashes can shape seasons and individual careers, even as players switch allegiances and adapt to new squads. The emotional landscape of such matches remains a talking point for coaches and supporters who watch closely how sentiment and professionalism intersect on the field. [citation: Sports Express]