Vladimir Ponomarev, the former CSKA Moscow defender, spoke about how the squad is gearing up for the new campaign. In discussing the upcoming Russian Super Cup clash with Zenit, he explained that preparation is ongoing even while players are on break. He noted that judging the team’s current form is challenging at the moment, given how early the season starts and the rhythm players maintain through vacations.
He emphasized the uninterrupted loop between rest and training. The season typically begins with a winter break, followed by a brief rest period, then the return to the field. After about a month back in action, the team resumes a structured program, first in Moscow and then at the training camp. The idea is simple: football is not just a game, it is a passion. Without it, sustaining motivation becomes difficult, he observed. Ponomarev described the cycle as a continuous commitment where athletes keep their bodies and minds tuned to the sport even when they are supposed to be off duty.
Ponomarev recalled a historic moment from his time at Dynamo when the army and Dynamo squads shared a training camp in Kislovodsk. The story centered on a friendly futsal match that pitted four army players against six from Dynamo, orchestrated by Konstantin Beskov. The former defender underscored a crucial lesson: players must fall in love with football first, or the rest will not follow. He added that expecting big wages while neglecting the love of the game is a shortsighted approach. Loyalty to the club, the fans, and the homeland is what sustains a player beyond the paycheck, he told Socialbites.ca with a candid honesty.
The anticipated CSKA versus Zenit matchup is scheduled for Saturday, July 15 in Kazan, with kick-off at 17:00 Moscow time. The match will be judged by the referee Sergey Karasev, whose decision will set the tone for the early-season contest between two heavyweight clubs. The pregame chatter focuses as much on readiness and mindset as on tactical preparations, reflecting a culture of resilience and team unity that has defined CSKA in recent seasons. A strong crowd and high attendance figures are expected as fans look for a compelling start to the campaign. Social discussions surrounding the game have highlighted the importance of disciplined preparation and collective spirit in a season that promises to test the squad on several fronts.
Former CSKA goalkeeper also expressed optimism about the level of spectator interest, suggesting that a well-attended Super Cup can energize the team and set a positive tone for the months ahead. [Source: Socialbites.ca]