The clash between Rodina Moscow and Orenburg promises to be a lively affair as both sides look to build momentum in the cup competition. With the Russian Premier League season already throwing up surprises, this fixture on August 18 offers plenty of drama for fans who love goals and attacking football. Rodina have made a strong start to life in the top flight and will be keen to carry that form into cup duties while Orenburg continue to struggle at the back.
Team Form
Rodina Moscow opened their campaign with a thumping 5-0 win over Rubin and followed it up by holding their own against Zenit. The team looks full of confidence and their forwards are clicking nicely at the moment. Orenburg on the other hand have had a tough start conceding eight goals in their first two league games alone and they have now gone five cup matches without a win shipping twenty one goals in the process.
- Rodina have scored freely in their last two outings at home
- Orenburg have kept just one clean sheet all season
- The visitors have lost their last five cup ties by an average of over four goals
Tactical Analysis
Rodina like to press high and play direct football which has exposed teams that sit back. Their wingers are quick and the central midfielders cover plenty of ground to support attacks. Orenburg have tried to play out from the back but their defenders look shaky under pressure and this often leads to cheap turnovers in dangerous areas. Expect Rodina to dominate possession and create numerous chances especially on set pieces.
The visitors may look to hit on the counter but their lack of clean sheets suggests they will struggle to contain the home side for ninety minutes. Both teams have shown they can score but the pattern points to an open game with goals at both ends.
Betting Proposal
Given the attacking intent from Rodina and the leaky defence of Orenburg a high scoring encounter looks likely. The sides should combine for at least three goals in what promises to be an entertaining cup tie. Rodina and Orenburg to score three goals or more. Over 2.5 goals at odds of 1.87.
