Spartak Moscow vs Rostov Prediction 18 October 2025

Spartak have been conceding frequently, and they rank fifth in terms of goals scored. The stats aren't impressive. However, their overall play looks promising, which raises questions about the goalkeeper, defense, and the forward line's poor finishing. All of this might jeopardize Dejan Stanković's position, as rumors suggest a replacement is being sought. For now, the Serbian coach and his staff remain in charge, although Stanković himself is serving a suspension.

Without Stanković, Spartak nearly stumbled in the derby against CSKA. By the 18th minute, they had already conceded three goals, which could have led to a rout. But the team managed to rally and respond with two goals (2-3). They even had chances to equalize. This defeat ended a six-match unbeaten streak and left Spartak in sixth place on the league table. The gap to the top has widened to six points, which is not yet critical.

There were also rumors concerning Jonathan Alba's potential departure from Rostov. However, the team has put together a six-match unbeaten streak, and those whispers have quieted down. The "Yellow-Blues" have managed to keep clean sheets in four consecutive games, although their own scoring has been sparse, with just two goals during this stretch. It's clear the coach has simplified their play, allowing them to consistently pick up points, albeit at a slow pace, which leaves them in 10th place in the league table. Nevertheless, the coach has announced a fight to retain their spot in the Russian Premier League, a challenge the team is handling successfully.

In the last round, Rostov traveled to face Orenburg. The first half resembled a reconnaissance mission, with both teams sizing each other up as Alba's squad adjusted to the field. After the break, they stepped up their game while the hosts did not. The lone goal came in the 83rd minute from Timur Suleymanov, who scored with nearly his first touch after coming off the bench.