Salavat Yulaev UFA vs AK Bars Kazan Prediction 5 December 2025
🔊 The "Green Derby" in the KHL is set as Salavat Yulaev hosts Ak Bars Kazan on their home ice in Ufa. This matchup has been a significant rivalry for many years, despite the current gap in their standings within the Eastern Conference. The hosts are struggling to maintain their hold on the seventh spot, while the visitors are among the conference leaders.
Head-to-Head
This season, the rivals have faced each other twice, and on both occasions, Ak Bars emerged victorious. The current visitors decisively secured their wins in regulation time. It's worth noting the relatively low scoring in these encounters-over 120 minutes of play, the teams collectively managed to score just 9 goals.
Head-to-head statistics Salavat Yulaev UFA - AK Bars Kazan

Salavat Yulaev UFA Team Overview
Viktor Kozlov's squad has managed to bounce back after a string of setbacks. They've secured three victories in their last four matches, allowing them to re-enter the top 8 in the East. However, their position in the standings is far from secure. The team can't boast impressive statistics, having scored only 81 goals-significantly fewer than all the clubs ranked above them. On the other hand, they have one of the best defensive lines in the conference, conceding just 85 goals.
Match Results: Salavat Yulaev UFA

AK Bars Kazan Team Overview
The club from the capital of Tatarstan stumbled in the first half of November but managed to regain their footing. They have secured five wins in their last six games, which not only helped them maintain a position in the top eight of the East but also solidified their standing among the elite. While they don't lead the conference in scoring (102 goals) or defense (88 goals conceded), they've mastered the art of maximizing their potential, even when playing a conservative, defensive style. Looking ahead, the team is well-positioned to contend for the top spot.
Match Results: AK Bars Kazan
🏒 Projected Lineups
Salavat Yulaev: Vyazovoy - Stuart, Kulik - Brosseau, Roduold, Khokhlachyov
Ak Bars: Bilyalov - Miller, Lyamkin - Yashkin, Semyonov, Barabanov
🥅 Goalkeepers
Salavat Yulaev's goalie Semyon Vyazovoy continues to impress with his confident play despite his young age. The homegrown talent boasts a save percentage of 92.8% and has recorded one shutout. His efforts are pivotal in keeping the team in playoff contention.
Ak Bars' netminder Timur Bilyalov has recently returned to top form. He maintains an average save percentage of 91.5% and has secured two shutouts. While his performances may not be labeled as outstanding, he delivers when it matters most, providing crucial saves for his team.