CSKA vs Dinamo Prediction 28 August 2026

The opening game of the tournament was dominated by the Army Men. Igor Nikitin’s side confidently dispatched Spartak Moscow with a 4-0 victory, outshooting their opponents by a considerable margin. CSKA were particularly solid at the back, barely allowing Spartak any dangerous chances in front of goal.

This style of hockey has been a hallmark for CSKA throughout August. The team relies on well-organized play off the puck, while up front, the likes of Maxim Mamin, Marat Khairullin, Maxim Sorkin, and Ivan Drozdov consistently generate scoring opportunities. The goaltending has also been reliable, with Dmitry Gamzin recording a shutout in their previous outing.

Minsk also opened their tournament campaign with a win, edging past Ak Bars 2-1. Sergei Brylin’s side once again relied on disciplined defensive play and managed to hold onto their narrow advantage until the final buzzer. However, the match wasn’t without setbacks-two foreign players picked up injuries, which could impact the team’s rotation going forward.

Prior to the Mayor’s Cup, Dinamo played several preseason friendlies, recording victories over Sibir and Admiral, while only losing to Metallurg. Up front, Sam Anas, Vitali Pinchuk, and Vadim Moroz remain the key attacking threats, while Xavier Ouellet and Robert Hamilton anchor the blue line. Zachary Fucale continues to serve as the starting goaltender.