FC Sochi — CSKA Moscow : Match Preview and Prediction for September 22,2025

Match Overview

The matchday concludes with a clash between FC Sochi and CSKA Moscow. Both teams are pursuing vastly different objectives this season.

FC Sochi’s Dire Start and Coaching Change

FC Sochi has had an abysmal start to their Premier League campaign. It was evident that the squad wasn’t prepared for this level of competition. Despite the management’s efforts to strengthen the team during the off-season, a lack of cohesive teamwork has hindered their performance. Consequently, Moreno’s contract was terminated, and Igor Osinkin was appointed as the new head coach. However, even the anticipated “psychological” bounce from a coaching change has yet to materialize. While there are subtle shifts in their play, the results remain unchanged.

Osinkin’s Early Struggles and Team Form

Under Igor Osinkin, Sochi has suffered two defeats with an aggregate score of 0-6. The pattern of a weak attack and a porous defense persists. The Southerners are currently on a six-match losing streak, and securing any points against one of the RPL’s leading teams would be nothing short of a miracle.

CSKA Moscow’s Strong Start under Celestini

CSKA Moscow has enjoyed an excellent start to the new season under the guidance of Fabio Celestini. The team secured the Super Cup and maintained an undefeated streak in the league for a considerable period. The Swiss coach has demonstrably improved the Army Men’s positional attacking play, with CSKA averaging two goals per game. Their squad boasts an excellent blend of foreign players and promising young Russian talents, with Glebov and Kislyak particularly impressing. The experienced Akinfeev provides a calming presence between the posts.

Recent Setbacks and Renewed Ambition

CSKA’s last two matches haven’t been their best. First, they suffered a defeat in Rostov, though this result could be attributed to two red cards during the game. In a Cup match against Baltika, they led for most of the encounter but conceded a late goal in the final minute. Such minor setbacks should only serve to galvanize Celestini’s squad. A victory in this upcoming fixture would propel the visitors into second place in the league.