Zenit are coming into this clash looking like the real deal as defending champions and they have started the new Russian Premier League campaign with real fire in their belly. The St Petersburg side have already bagged two big wins on the road and the boys are clearly in the mood to make it three straight victories when they welcome Moscow side Rodina. Home advantage at their own ground usually brings out the best in them and fans are expecting another strong showing from the league leaders who have been scoring for fun early in the season.
Team Form
Zenit have shown they can hurt teams in both halves of the match and their attack has been firing on all cylinders with eight goals already in just two games. The side dismantled Akron five goals to nil and then followed it up with a clean three nil win over Orenburg leaving no doubt about their attacking strength. On the other side Rodina are still finding their feet in the top flight after two tough losses but they did pick up a morale boosting cup win that could help steady the ship even if the immediate impact may not show right away.
- Zenit lead the table with the highest goals scored so far this season
- Rodina have conceded seven goals in their opening two league games
- Zenit remain unbeaten and look sharper in front of goal at home
Tactical Analysis
Zenit like to control games with their strong squad and they can switch from cautious play to all out attack once they get the first goal. Their ability to score before and after half time makes them a nightmare for any visiting team especially one still adjusting to the pace of the division like Rodina. The Moscow outfit will need to stay compact and hope for counter chances but playing away against the champions is a tall order and their defense has looked shaky under pressure.
- Zenit have scored four goals in each half across their opening fixtures
- Rodina managed a five nil cup win but struggled in league matches against stronger sides
- Home side usually dominate possession and create more clear cut chances
Betting Proposal
Given how Zenit have started the season and the way they perform in front of their own fans this looks like a match where the hosts will run out comfortable winners. Rodina are still adapting and the trip to St Petersburg could prove too much for them right now. The smart play is to back the home side to win by two goals or more.
Zenit to win at home with a margin of two goals or more. Handicap 1 (-1.5) at odds of 1.55.
