Lokomotiv Moscow — CSKA Moscow : Match Preview and Prediction for October 18,2025

Lokomotiv’s Unbeaten Streak and Recent Form

Lokomotiv Moscow currently holds the unique distinction in the Russian championship of remaining undefeated, despite 11 rounds having already been played since the season’s commencement. However, this impressive streak doesn’t place Galaktionov’s squad at the top of the league, as nearly half of their fixtures during this period (5) have resulted in draws, slightly fewer than their victories (6).

Derby Victory and Squad Update

Prior to the international break, the ‘Red-Greens’ emerged victorious in a high-scoring derby clash against Dynamo, defeating Karpin’s side 5-3 after initially trailing 1-2. A momentary defensive lapse in the latter part of the first half ultimately did not cost them any points. Now, they face another home derby, this time against the ‘Horses’ (CSKA), a challenge that promises to be exceptionally tough for the ‘Railroaders’. On a positive note, their infirmary is empty, with even Sergey Pinyaev making a recovery after several months sidelined due to injury. He even featured and scored in a closed-door friendly match for Lokomotiv against Bolivia (a 3-0 victory).

CSKA’s Dominance and Recent Derby Success

Here stands the league leader, a position they have thoroughly earned and currently occupy deservedly. Before the league hiatus, the ‘Red-Blues’ secured a derby win against Spartak, courtesy of a blistering start that saw them net three goals early on. The Army Men then fiercely defended their lead, nearly squandering it, but Celestini’s inaugural ‘All-Russian Derby’ ultimately concluded with a 3-2 victory.

Squad Fatigue and Key Absences

A new derby awaits, although CSKA has already met Lokomotiv twice in the Russian Cup group stage this season. This away fixture at Cherkizovo against Batrakov and his squad promises to be a stern test, especially considering that Karpin’s Bolivia squad fielded five CSKA players in the starting lineup, giving them significant game time, while Barinov and Silyanov also featured for Lokomotiv. Therefore, neither the ‘Red-Greens’ nor the ‘Red-Blues’ will be at their peak freshness. For the visiting team in this derby against Lokomotiv, Moises will be absent due to an accumulation of yellow cards – a significant loss. De Luciano is also unavailable, while the participation of Akinfeev and Musaev remains uncertain. Despite these greater setbacks, it’s up to Celestini to rise to the challenge and navigate this difficult test.