Krasnodar goalkeeper Matvey Safonov spoke after the team secured a victory over Krylia Sovetov in the Russian Cup Regions Road final. He noted that the match carried a blast of energy for the squad, even if such jolts are not strictly necessary. The keeper emphasized that the team always manages to bring something extra to these big games, regardless of the circumstances.
The surface of the discussion centered on performing a clean win. Krasnodar pressed from the start, holding a comfortable 2-0 lead, and Safonov pointed out that while leading by two goals should reduce risk, the group often finds ways to complicate its own task. The goal was simple in theory, yet the team remains focused on a decisive finish and maintaining control throughout the match, a sentiment echoed by the coaching staff and players alike, as reported by Match TV.
In an intense clash that extended into extra time, Krasnodar fought back from a deficit to force a penalty shootout. Goals from Tsypchenko and Gaponov in extra time set up the dramatic finale, but Safonov stood firm in the shootout, stopping a shot and watching two others miss the target as the shootout unfolded in Krasnodar’s favor. The keeper appeared calm under pressure and cited the collective belief that carried the team through the decisive moments.
Looking ahead, Krasnodar is set to face Spartak and Akron in their upcoming Russian Cup fixtures, a schedule that promises more high-stakes football for the squad. The team will aim to translate their regional success into broader Cup progress and continued momentum in domestic competitions.
On the league front, the RPL Road agenda features a return match in Yekaterinburg where Ural hosts CSKA after a 1-1 draw in the opening encounter. The interplay of cup and league duties will shape the team’s preparation and focus as the season moves forward.
Earlier remarks from Eduard Spersyan highlighted Akron’s surprising progress in the Russian Cup, explaining how the club managed to eliminate several Moscow teams from the competition and demonstrating the depth of talent across the league this season.