CSKA Moscow poised to rule at home against out-of-form Krylia Sovetov

Round 2 of the Russian Premier League continues on Saturday night, with CSKA Moscow hosting Krylia Sovetov. CSKA have long been strong at home and opened the new league campaign with a win on their own ground, so they look well placed to take another home victory against a Krylia Sovetov side currently short on form.

Although CSKA Moscow struggled in pre-season friendlies, drawing two and losing four of six matches, they looked revived in the opening round of the new Russian Premier League season. Thanks to a goal from K. Kipalov and an own goal by the opposition, they beat Baltika 2-1 to make a winning start.

In truth, CSKA's opening league win was not much of a surprise, because they have consistently been a strong home side. Last season, their home win rate in the league was 66.67%, placing them among the division's better teams. With this match also at home, they will be confident of extending their winning run.

By contrast, while CSKA made a winning start, Krylia Sovetov delivered an ordinary performance in the first round, playing out a dull 0-0 draw with Dynamo Moscow. It was another setback at the beginning of the campaign.

Krylia Sovetov's failure to open with a win was not unexpected. Before their first Russian Premier League match, they had managed only one draw and three defeats in four friendlies. In other words, they are now without a win in five straight matches in all competitions and appear to be stuck in a slump. Facing a home-strong CSKA Moscow away from home, Krylia Sovetov look set for defeat.