The clash between Orenburg and Rubin on the second of September promises to be a tight affair in group A where every side has tasted both victory and defeat after two rounds. Orenburg will look to make the most of home soil and pick up vital points against a Rubin side that has shown flashes of quality but remains inconsistent on the road. Both teams sit level on points and the race for the playoff spots will likely go down to the wire with four matches still left for each club.
Team Form
- Orenburg suffered a heavy 1-5 loss away to Spartak before bouncing back with a convincing 4-1 win against Rodina on the road.
- Rubin secured a penalty shootout victory over Spartak in their only home game so far but crashed 0-5 away to Rodina in the opening round.
- Orenburg remain a strong home unit under Ildar Akhmetzyanov with five wins and one draw in all competitions since the start of the year.
- Rubin have managed just one win in regular time this season against Akron and have drawn several games 1-1.
The artificial pitch at Orenburg has become a real fortress and that factor could tilt the balance once again. Earlier in the league season the two sides played out a 1-1 draw so the form book suggests another close contest is on the cards.
Tactical Analysis
- Orenburg like to press high at home and exploit the quick surface with direct passes into the channels.
- Rubin prefer a compact defensive shape and look to hit on the counter but struggle to create clear chances without their former striker Mirlind Daku.
- Both teams have already shown they can score in bunches yet also concede soft goals so the game could open up after the break.
With three of Orenburg remaining fixtures set to be played on their artificial turf the home side hold a slight edge in the race for qualification.
Betting Proposal
Given Orenburg strong home record and the even nature of the group the safest play lies with the hosts avoiding defeat. Orenburg to win or draw at odds of 2.08 looks the value bet. Expect a cagey first half followed by more open play as both sides chase the three points.
