Zenit

Zenit have been formidable in front of goal with 13 strikes in six league games and enter this encounter on the back of consecutive wins without conceding. CSKA Moscow have shown resilience to remain unbeaten in league play but face key absences, including goalkeeper I. Akinfeev. Historical meetings between these sides are traditionally tight, with five draws in the last seven head-to-head fixtures hosted by Zenit, making the home double chance a well-supported option alongside an expectation for under 2.5 total goals.

Zenit remain unbeaten in their last 10 head-to-head fixtures against Fakel, winning eight and drawing two. Fakel have yet to win a match this season (0-2-3 overall) and have scored only one goal in three home games. While the suspension of M. Glushenkov slightly dampens Zenit's firepower, double chance covering the away win or draw provides strong security against Fakel's low-scoring defensive setup.

Zenit have not conceded a goal in their two away league fixtures, securing two victories with an aggregate score of 8-0. Furthermore, head-to-head records heavily favor Zenit avoiding defeat, having lost only one of their previous ten competitive encounters with Spartak Moscow (three wins, six draws).