Dynamo Moscow Backed to Start Strong Against Krylia Sovetov

The second match of the opening round of the new Russian Premier League season will be played on Saturday evening, with Dynamo Moscow hosting Krylia Sovetov. Dynamo Moscow looked sharp throughout pre-season and arrive on the back of a string of friendly wins, with all three points firmly in their sights at home.

Dynamo Moscow were only average last season and eventually finished seventh, but they ended the campaign well, going unbeaten in the final four rounds with three wins and one draw. In pre-season, they showed clear intent to push for a stronger campaign, posting five wins and one defeat from their last six friendlies and currently riding a five-match winning streak. Their attack is another major plus: they averaged 1.7 goals per game last season, among the best marks in the league. Konstantin Tyukavin contributed 10 goals and 3 assists in 22 appearances, and under his lead Dynamo will believe they can make a strong start to the new season.

Krylia Sovetov were far less convincing. They finished last season with 8 wins, 8 draws and 14 defeats, collecting 32 points to place 11th. Their averages of 1.17 goals scored and 1.67 conceded per match showed a clear imbalance at both ends. Things have not improved in pre-season either, as they failed to win any of their last four friendlies, recording 1 draw and 3 defeats, with several of those opponents considered weaker on paper. Away to a Dynamo Moscow side that has held a clear edge in recent meetings, Krylia Sovetov may do well just to keep the margin respectable.