The Russian Premier League returns on Saturday, with Anzhi’s encounter with CSKA Moscow undoubtedly the highlight of the opening day. With CSKA having narrowly missed out on the title, while the home side avoided relegation by the skin of their teeth, it will be a fascinating encounter, with the emphasis perhaps on the visitors to kick-start their campaign with a win.
With the return of the Russian top-flight signalling the start of the new football season for many, plenty of bets are expected to be placed on this match. Let’s take a closer look at the two teams, as well as our top betting tip for the encounter, in order to aid your betting decisions.
Anzhi Makhachkala
Having finished just one position above the relegation zone last season, Anzhi have invested heavily in the playing squad, with the likes of Ivan Markelov, Vladimir Poluyakhtov and Vadim Afonin all having moved to the Anzhi-Arena over the summer. Armenian boss Aleksandr Grigoryan will be looking for a fresh start having taken over as manager in January, with Anzhi having struggled over recent years following the loss of their influential investors.
CSKA Moscow
CSKA lost out in the race for the title to rivals Spartak Moscow, with manager Viktar Hancharenka under pressure to deliver in the upcoming campaign. With Aleksandr Golovin, Alan Dzagoev and Vitinho among their biggest threats in attack, the Russian giants will be looking to kick start their campaign with an impressive away win.
Top Betting Tip
Despite their second placed finish last season, CSKA may struggle to overcome Anzhi on the opening day, with the home side looking to make a strong start to the season after their struggles last time around. As a result, out top betting tip is to back a draw between the two teams, which can be found with best odds of 3/1 at SkyBet.