Former CSKA Moscow footballer Valery Masalitin spoke with socialbites.ca about his expectations for the army club’s upcoming clash with Ural Yekaterinburg in a Russian Cup RPL Road final showdown. The match is scheduled for April 19, with the whistle at 19:00 Moscow time. Masalitin offered a considered take on the game, emphasizing the quality and grit that Ural has shown in both home and away encounters throughout the season. He pointed to recent performances, noting a hard-fought battle against Zenit where Ural pressed consistently and made life difficult for their opponent until the decisive moment altered the course of the match thanks to an intervention by Sergeyev.
Masalitin argued that the upcoming encounter would be a tough test for CSKA. He described Ural as a team that plays with a clear identity and refuses to compromise, a squad that has established its own rhythm and approach under pressure. The former coach suggested that Ural enters the fixture with a well-drilled mindset, treating the Russian Cup ties almost like a separate competition where form can shift quickly. The emphasis, according to Masalitin, is on the momentum generated by the team and the mental edge it can bring into a big occasion. He warned that CSKA could be influenced by the mood around the match, but he also noted that the army side typically performs with intensity at home, applying pressure, restricting the opponent, and creating chances. If CSKA can translate that energy into clinical finishing and sustained pressure, the game can develop into an engaging contest that rewards proactive play.
The upcoming match has extra narrative weight because Ural is led by Viktor Goncharenko, who previously coached CSKA. This connection adds layers to the dynamic, as fans and analysts consider how past relationships and tactical philosophies may influence decisions on the night. Earlier in the season, the teams met in Yekaterinburg during the 23rd week of the Russian Premier League, where CSKA claimed a 2-1 victory. These recent league meetings, alongside a separate group-stage encounter in the Russian Cup, contribute to a sense of familiarity between the two sides. Masalitin highlighted that such familiarity can lead to a harder-fought battle, with both teams knowing each other’s strengths and potential weak points.
The broader context around the match includes the ongoing storyline of CSKA’s recent performances. Masalitin noted that the army club typically brings a high tempo and aggressive pressing when playing in front of their home supporters. In a knockout setting, the ability to sustain intensity, convert chances, and maintain composure under pressure becomes crucial. He suggested thatCSKA should focus on building pressure early, staying organized at the back, and exploiting any opportunities to disrupt Ural’s rhythm. The match represents not just a chance to advance in a prestigious cup competition but also a test of character for CSKA, especially given the opportunities that a strong result could unlock in the remainder of the season.
In addition to tactical considerations, Masalitin reflected on the psychological aspect of facing a side that has shown resilience against top clubs. He stressed that belief matters in these games and that CSKA’s players need to trust their training, execute their game plan, and stay focused on the process rather than the potential size of the occasion. The synergy between coaching staff, players, and the home crowd can tilt the balance, and Masalitin believes that the atmosphere around the match could become a decisive factor as the clock winds down.
As the April 19 meeting approaches, fans and pundits will be weighing the strength of each team’s squad depth, the tactical flexibility of both managers, and the ability to adapt to the demands of knock-out football. Ural’s capacity to play with intensity across both halves, combined with CSKA’s expected energy in front of their own supporters, promises an intriguing duel. Masalitin’s assessment serves as a reminder that in cup football, preparation, self-belief, and the execution of a well-structured plan can tip the scales in a tightly contested tie. The result will not only determine a place in the next stage but also shape momentum for both clubs as the season progresses.