Zenit vs Lokomotiv Moscow Match Preview

Zenit was clearly the better side against newcomers Rotor Volgograd, however, they opened the scoreline in the dying seconds of the first half. In the second half, they exploded scoring 5 more goals, reaching an impressive 6-0. After this outcome, they maintained their 6-point advantage from second-placed Lokomotiv Moscow and they are the clear favorites for the title, having three games to play until the end of the season.

Croatian defender D.Lovren has not fully recovered from his recent muscle injury and is a doubt here. Russian Premier League top scorer S.Azmoun is again available after missing the last round’s match against Rotor Volgograd due to suspension.

Lokomotiv Moscow is impressive having only wins in 2021. They are coming from an eleven-win streak, 8 of them are for the Premier League and the other three for the Russian Cup competition. Their most recent win was 5-2 over Tambov on the road, in a game that they faced minor difficulties only in the first half. They are having 52 points sitting on the 2nd spot of the table, and their chances for the title will remain alive only with a win tonight.

First choice goalkeeper G.Marinato is set to return to Lokomotiv’s starting XI after losing the last two matches due to suspension. Versatile forward Zé Luís returned to the squad in the previous match after recovering from a long-term injury and might be ready to return to action in this one.

Zenit is storming in their home games this season, having 12 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss after 14 games played. However, I cannot accept the 1.50 odds offered for the home win, against an overwhelming side that is coming from 11 consecutive wins in all competitions. Even if Lokomotiv Moscow has slight hopes for the title, as a win here could prove not enough for them, the massive odds of 6.50 that are offered for the away win do not reflect the real quality difference of these two sides. I’ll take the risk!