Spartak versus Lokomotiv: Kavazashvili shares thoughts on the cup clash and Dziuba’s Lokomotiv bow
Anzor Kavazashvili, a veteran of the USSR national team and a trusted voice in Russian football, weighs in on the upcoming Russian Cup showdown between Spartak and Lokomotiv. He also offers perspective on Artem Dziuba, who is poised to make his first appearance for Lokomotiv. The remarks were relayed by RB Sports, underscoring a moment of keen interest around the fixture.
A notable intrigue surrounds Dziuba stepping onto the field against his former club. Kavazashvili points out that Artem has a history of finding the net against Spartak, signaling that Lokomotiv will need to keep a close watch on him. While praising Dziuba’s goal instinct and knack for timing his runs, Kavazashvili warns Spartak not to take him lightly. He adds that a debut against the rival club offers a platform to make a bold statement, even within a cup contest, and emphasizes that the focus remains strictly sportive rather than personal.
The tie is slated for Cherkizovo on February 22, as both teams gear up for a competitive and meaningful domestic cup clash.
Lokomotiv announced Dziuba’s signing on February 8, securing his services for the remainder of the season. In the wake of the transfer, a strongly worded banner appeared near the club’s home stadium, highlighting the sharp reception awaiting the forward as he begins a new chapter with the railway club.
Before joining Lokomotiv, Dziuba spent several months without a club, most recently with Adana Demirspor in Turkey beginning in August 2022. His contract with Adana ended on November 3, and he appeared in four matches for the Turkish side, without starting in league play. This period raised questions about his form and readiness for top level competition, questions Lokomotiv aimed to address by bringing him in late in the winter window.
Across his career, Dziuba has deep ties to the red and white colors, having spent a lengthy spell with Spartak’s traditional rivals before contributing to Lokomotiv after a switch in clubs. Kavazashvili’s observations hint at a broader narrative about legacy, pressure, and expectation as the teams prepare for a clash that could influence the cup run and each club’s momentum for the season. The situation reflects a dynamic balance among talent mobility, fan sentiment, and on field performance in modern football. The stakes are high for Dziuba, for Lokomotiv, and for Spartak as points, prestige, and a clear statement are in play for the remainder of the campaign. The public dialogue around the match underscores a mix of sporting rivalry, career arcs, and the sometimes thorny ties between players, clubs, and supporters.