CSKA vs Lokomotiv Yaroslavl Prediction 18 September 2025
🔊 CSKA Moscow are set to host Lokomotiv Yaroslavl on their home ice. This matchup is poised to be one of the most crucial encounters at the start of the new KHL regular season. One of the main contenders for the 2025/26 season will face off against the reigning Gagarin Cup champions. There's also a personal storyline here, as the home team's head coach, Igor Nikitin, guided the visitors to that coveted trophy this past spring.
Head-to-Head
Since 2024, the rivals have faced off in 10 head-to-head clashes. A standout moment was their playoff encounter in 2024. Meeting in the first round, Lokomotiv left their Moscow opponents with no chance, dominating the series 4-1. In 2025, the teams have already played two matches, with Yaroslavl once again proving superior, boasting an aggregate score of 7-2.
Head-to-head statistics CSKA - Lokomotiv Yaroslavl
CSKA Moscow Team Overview
Igor Nikitin's squad are still searching for consistency. After a resounding victory over Dynamo Moscow (6-2) and a narrow win against Admiral Vladivostok (1-0), the hosts have alternated between triumphs and setbacks. Interestingly, there's no apparent correlation with the caliber of their opponents. For instance, the team struggled against Sochi (0-2) but then managed to edge out a resilient Severstal (2-1). It's clear that this inconsistency is tied to the demands of the new coaching staff, which the players are just beginning to implement. Nikitin's coaching style and high standards are well-known, and this learning process is unfolding right in the midst of the regular season.
Match Results: CSKA Moscow
Lokomotiv Yaroslavl Team Overview
The reigning Gagarin Cup holders faced a setback before the regular season even began, losing one of their key players, Artur Kayumov. However, his absence is unlikely to be a decisive factor. The club isn't dealing with major issues at the start. Yes, there were defeats against Shanghai (1-4) and Neftekhimik (4-5 OT), but their confident style remains intact. Bob Hartley's arrival as head coach this summer has certainly influenced the team's play, making it more dynamic and attacking. The contrast with Igor Nikitin's era is stark, and some challenges were inevitable.
Match Results: Lokomotiv Yaroslavl
🏒 Probable Lineups
CSKA: Martin - Provolnev, Nesterov - Buchelnikov, Zernov, Kovalenko
Lokomotiv: Isaev - Bereglazov, Sergeyev - Polunin, Shalunov, Berezkin
🥅 Goalkeepers
CSKA's goaltender Spencer Martin had his first significant stumble of the season. The matchup against Spartak Moscow proved too challenging for him. The Canadian managed to save only 87% of shots, failing to maintain the standard 90% save rate for the first time this season.
Lokomotiv's goalie Daniil Isaev continues to be a model of reliability. A local talent, he averages a 93.3% save rate and remains composed and unfazed under any level of pressure.
Editor's Prediction
This is the marquee match of the day, loaded with intrigue and backstory. Igor Nikitin spent years building his project in Yaroslavl, eventually leading it to a coveted title before leaving the club amidst controversy. Meanwhile, Bob Hartley's arrival as the visitors' coach is filled with emotional resonance, as both the club and city hold significant meaning for him. These elements are bound to influence the action on the ice. Considering all factors, we see the hosts as favorites in this upcoming clash. While the "Army Men" have been inconsistent, they are eager to prove they are currently stronger than the reigning Gagarin Cup holders, who have shown vulnerability at times. Our prediction: a CSKA victory in the end.No comments
Betting Tips: CSKA Moscow - Lokomotiv Yaroslavl
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