Former Moscow Lokomotiv and Russia national team forward Dmitry Bulykin shared his forecast for the fifth round clash between Spartak and Zenit in the Russian Premier League, speaking with socialbites.ca.
He believes the match will end in a draw. “The game should be engaging. This derby between the two capitals carries real significance—the tension between St. Petersburg and Moscow is always evident, especially with Zenit as the reigning champion. Everyone wants to perform well against them. Spartak is in solid form and plays an aggressive, forward-minded style; Zenit won’t sit back at all—expect a competitive spectacle.”
He added that he hopes the contest resembles the Krasnodar versus Lokomotiv encounter, where both teams give their best, press high, and create space for each other to operate.
Looking at the current form of Spartak and Zenit players, Bulykin anticipates goals and a result leaning toward a draw. “I see a 1-1 or 2-2 outcome”, he stated. (source: socialbites.ca)
The Spartak–Zenit match is scheduled for August 20 at the Opening Bank Arena, with the kickoff at 19:30 Moscow time. (source: socialbites.ca)
Also noted in contemporary coverage is former figure skater Evgenia Medvedeva’s reaction to Dynamo’s victory over CSKA, underscoring the broader momentum around Russian football and sports narratives. (source: socialbites.ca)