Metallurg vs Rubin Prediction 21 September 2026
π In Novokuznetsk, two clubs with a history of chasing big ambitions in the VHL are set to clash, though they currently find themselves on opposite ends of the standings and head into this head-to-head in very different form. Still, it would be premature to hand the win to Metallurg. Last season, Rubin already proved they can put up a fight against Novokuznetsk, and this year the hosts have struggled even against less illustrious opponents. Can Tyumen capitalise on these issues and challenge one of the leagueβs perennial contenders?
Head-to-Head
π Metallurg and Rubin have faced off in 24 official matches. The hosts have claimed 12 victories, including wins in overtime, while the visitors have come out on top 10 times. Metallurg also lead in total goals scored, with 71 to Rubinβs 61. On average, the teams combine for 1.88 goals in the first period, 1.79 in the second, and 1.58 in the third. The average total goals per game stands at 5.17. Their most recent head-to-head took place on 20 February 2026 at Metallurgβs home rink, where Metallurg secured a 3-0 win.
Head-to-head statistics Metallurg - Rubin

Metallurg Team Overview
Metallurg enter this fixture on the back of three wins and two losses in their last five outings, having celebrated victory in their most recent game. The team are currently riding a two-game winning streak, which should boost their confidence on home ice.
They are averaging two goals per game this season, anchored by a rock-solid defense that concedes just 0.8 goals per contest-a clear sign of their defense-first approach. At home, their defensive numbers dip slightly to 1.5 goals allowed, but they make up for it offensively with an average of 2.5 goals scored. Notably, the under 4.5 goals market has landed in all of Metallurgβs last five matches, highlighting their ability to dictate the tempo and avoid wide-open hockey, regardless of their opponentsβ style.
Match Results: Metallurg

Rubin Team Overview
Rubin head into this away fixture riding a run of two wins and three losses, having come out on top in their most recent outing. However, looking at their last 10 games, they have managed just four victories against six defeats, underscoring their inconsistency. On average, Rubin score 1.8 goals per game while conceding 2.5, highlighting their defensive vulnerabilities-particularly on the road, where they allow 2.5 goals per contest, even though their attack slightly improves to match that number.
Despite occasional bursts of offensive energy, Rubin have yet to find a steady balance between attack and defence: the number of goals they concede consistently outweighs their scoring output. Their recent head-to-head clash with Metallurg ended in a 0-3 defeat, further illustrating Rubinβs struggles when facing well-organised opponents.