The new VTB League season is kicking off with plenty of excitement as MBA Moscow host the mighty CSKA in what promises to be a fiery opener on September 27 2026. CSKA have dominated the competition for years now grabbing three straight titles and they are hungry for a fourth straight crown but the home side have shown they can mix it with the big boys during pre season friendlies.
Team Form
MBA have been building nicely with solid wins over Zenit St Petersburg and UNICS Kazan in September which gives them real belief heading into the regular season. CSKA on the other hand dropped a surprise loss to Lokomotiv Kuban in the Super Cup but bounced back strongly against UNICS showing their usual class. The army men have never lost to MBA in the league though the Moscow derby has gone to overtime twice in recent seasons.
- MBA pre season form: beat Zenit 80 78 and UNICS 96 92
- CSKA recent results: lost to Lokomotiv Kuban 82 90 but beat UNICS 79 59
- Head to head: CSKA unbeaten but two close overtime games
Tactical Analysis
CSKA always come out as favorites no matter the opponent but MBA will be buzzing on their home court and looking to cause an early upset. The visitors have the depth and experience to control most games yet the hosts can stretch them with good shooting and hustle on defense. With only eleven teams in the league the push for top five spots starts right away and both sides know every point matters.
Expect MBA to play with plenty of heart and try to keep the margin under control while CSKA will look to wear them down in the second half with their superior bench.
Betting Proposal
After checking the types this one looks good for a home cover on the handicap. MBA should stay competitive enough on their own floor to avoid a heavy beating.
MBA +17.5 at odds of 1.95
