Zenit and the side from Makhachkala already crossed paths in a short pre-season friendly and the reigning RPL champs ran out 2-0 winners thanks to strikes from Wendel and Gustavo Mantuan. The upcoming clash comes right before Zenit lock horns with Spartak Moscow for the Super Cup so expect plenty of rotation from the St Petersburg bench. For the visitors this is a real chance to show what they are made of without the pressure of a trophy game hanging over them.
Team Form
Zenit have looked sharp in patches during their warm-up games but the squad is clearly being managed carefully ahead of the Super Cup. Dynamo on the other hand managed just one win from three friendlies and even dropped points against Gimnasia from Argentina. Still the Makhachkala lads will come into this one full of beans because they know a good result here could lift spirits for the season ahead.
- Zenit won all seven previous meetings including friendlies
- Dynamo picked up only one victory in their last three pre-season outings
- Both sides have key players returning from longer breaks
Tactical Analysis
With the first-team stars likely rested after their midweek date with Red Star, Zenit will hand minutes to fringe players who normally warm the bench. That opens the door for Dynamo to press higher and look for quick transitions. The visitors have nothing to lose and will surely pack the midfield to frustrate the hosts while waiting for set-piece openings.
Betting Proposal
Given the rotation expected at Zenit this looks like a perfect spot for the visitors to keep things tight. These types of games often throw up surprises when the big guns sit out. The smart money is on Dynamo to avoid a heavy defeat on the road.
Dynamo +1.5 handicap at 1.72 is the play here as the Makhachkala boys should stay within touching distance.
