Hockey world champion Alexey Tereshchenko weighed in on the injury that sidelined Chelyabinsk Traktor’s goalie Zach Fucale during the opening game of the Gagarin Cup semifinal against Lokomotiv Yaroslavl. In his remarks for a betting outlet, the former player stressed that the forced change in goal would be a meaningful setback for Traktor, even before the series had a chance to fully unfold.
According to Tereshchenko, the moment itself carried a lighter mood, and Lokomotiv’s players generally play a clean, calculated brand of hockey. Yet the absence of Fucale looms large for the series, as the goalie has long been viewed as the team’s cornerstone. His leadership between the pipes is not easily replaced, and that reality could shape how Traktor approaches the remaining games.
“Replacing Fucale with Mylnikov will be a challenge,” Tereshchenko commented. “Mylnikov is undoubtedly one of the strongest netminders in the Kontinental Hockey League. The Dinamo series demonstrated his capability, and he carried the load even when Salavat was a opponent, delivering critical saves. This is a substantial loss for Traktor. As for Mylnikov, questions will inevitably arise about timing and rhythm after a long period on the bench. It is one thing to be ready in practice; it is another to perform under the pressure of a high-stakes playoff game.”
Sergei Mylnikov entered the game in the 35th minute to shield the injured Fucale. He faced 17 shots, stopping 14, while three goals found the net in the time he played. Lokomotiv ultimately sealed the win with a 5-2 scoreline, a result that accentuates the pressure on Traktor to adjust on the fly and still contest the series without their veteran stopper.
Earlier in the postseason, Lokomotiv had demonstrated its resilience and depth, a factor that makes the semifinal clash especially compelling for fans across North America who follow the KHL with a keen eye on playoff dynamics. The shift in goaltending for Traktor underscores how much weight a single position can carry when the stakes are elevated and the margin for error narrows. In the broader picture, teams facing injury at a pivotal moment learn to lean on backup options, sharpen defensive structures, and push forwards to provide the necessary offensive support while the crease is in flux. The series thus becomes not just a test of pure talent but a test of depth, coaching decisions, and the ability of players to adapt under pressure.