Baltika vs FC Dynamo-Makhachkala Prediction 5 October 2025

Baltika have returned to the RPL with their own distinctive style. The coaching staff focus on physical fitness, pressing, and counter-attacks. So far, this strategy has been effective. However, in the last three rounds, the team have neither won nor scored. The emotionally charged match against Zenit (0-0), where the "sailors" came closer to victory, might have taken its toll. Following that, they had a balanced game, albeit with some advantage for Rostov (0-0). Last week's match against CSKA also seemed destined for a goalless draw. But in the final minutes, Baltika were reduced to ten men and conceded in stoppage time (0-1). This defeat dropped them to sixth place in the standings, which is still better than expected before the season began.

In the Russian Cup, Baltika started with three losses. It seemed they were deliberately sacrificing the tournament by fielding reserves. Yet in the fourth round, they managed to surprise by defeating CSKA after a penalty shootout. During the week, the "sailors" secured a full three points against Akron (3-0). In the second half, their opponents were down to ten men, but by that point, Baltika were already leading by two goals, so the red card only affected the final scoreline. The team have moved up to third place in their group and have a solid chance of advancing to the playoffs of the Regional Path.

This summer, Makhachkala saw their leading players depart. However, the team's style of play remains intact, as do their results. It's clear that Dynamo are expected to fight for survival, yet they currently sit above the relegation playoff zone. The team shows a stark contrast between their home and away performances. On their own turf, they remain unbeaten, although they did drop points in the last round with a draw against Sochi (0-0). On the road, the "White-Blues" have played five matches, managing only a draw with Orenburg (1-1), while suffering clean sheet losses in the other encounters.

In the Russian Cup, Dynamo Makhachkala are turning heads. Hasanbi Bidjiev, like many of his peers, rotates the squad. Nevertheless, the team has won all their matches, including penalty shootouts. This week, they hosted Rostov. The coach fielded a lineup different from what is planned for the league fixtures. Despite that, Makhachkala triumphed in the penalty shootout (2-1). They maintain their lead in the group and have already secured a spot in the RPL Path playoffs.