Big battle in Moscow: CSKA faces Metallurg

Tonight’s game between CSKA and Metallurg promises an intriguing matchup. Metallurg finds itself in a rebuilding phase under the guidance of new head coach Andrei Razin. With several new faces in the lineup, they kicked off the season with a hard-fought 2:3 OT loss to Avtomobilist.

On the other side, CSKA, despite a shaky start in the Opening Cup where they succumbed to Ak Bars 2:5, quickly rebounded with a convincing 4:1 victory over Admiral. The Muscovites seem determined to regain their winning form.

Two of Metallurg’s recent signings, Nikita Mikhailis and Maxim Mukhametov – both from Kazakhstan – made a promising impact, both finding the back of the net in their debut game with Magnitka. However, CSKA will be looking to capitalize on their recent momentum.

In the goaltending department, CSKA’s Ivan Fedotov struggled in the opener and was replaced by Alexander Sharychenkov against Admiral, leaving the starting goalie spot uncertain. Metallurg’s Artyom Zagidulin didn’t impress either against the Motormen – will we see Ilya Nabokov’s finally have his KHL debut? This uncertainty adds an extra layer of intrigue to the game, making it a must-watch for fans eager to see how these two teams perform.

19:30 CSKA (1-1-0) vs Metallurg (0-0-1)

About the game

CSKA ends a three-game home series and defeated Admiral on Sunday (4:1).

Metallurg enters its second game of a five-match road trip following a loss to Avtomobilist on Saturday (2:3 OT).

Milestone alert

CSKA’s forward Anton Slepyshev may reach 250 KHL points (currently at 249).

Metallurg’s forward Denis Zernov may reach 200 points in the KHL (currently at 199).

Metallurg’s goalie Artyom Zagidulin may line up for his 50^th KHL game (currently at 49).