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Barys vs Sochi: KHL Match Prediction
On September 26, we will witness a matchup between the league's underdogs, Barys and Sochi. Both teams are in the midst of lengthy losing streaks and have struggled to secure points. However, the Astana squad holds an edge in their head-to-head encounters with the Leopards, making them slight favorites in this clash. But is betting on their victory the right choice? Or should we place our trust in the visitors? Find the answers to these questions in our detailed prediction.
Command Analysis
Barys Nur-Sultan
KazakhstanCurrent Form
Barys is struggling to find its rhythm, currently sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with only three points. The team is on a three-game losing streak, suffering defeats by several goals in each of those matches. Adding to their troubles, key players Antipin, Zhafyarov, and Bole are sidelined with injuries. In their last three games, Barys faced losses against Ak Bars (0:5), Vityaz (1:4), and Dynamo Moscow (1:3).
This losing streak was the final straw for the club's management, leading to the dismissal of head coach David Nemirovski. While the responsibility for these results likely isn’t solely on his shoulders, a change was necessary. The management has appointed Vyacheslav Butsayev as his successor. It will be intriguing to see how the new coach addresses the pressing issues, with the upcoming match against fellow bottom-dweller Sochi serving as a potential opportunity for a fresh start.
Injuries and Suspensions
Antipin, Bole, Muratov, and Zhafyarov will be unavailable for the match due to injuries.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Barys averages one goal per game.
This season, the team has never scored more than one goal in a match.
- Barys has a 1:10 goal differential in the third period.
The Astana team has struggled significantly in the third period, holding the worst goal differential during this segment.
HC Sochi
Russian FederationCurrent Form
Sochi sits at the bottom of the Western Conference, earning just one point more than Barys. The team is struggling as they are on a three-game losing streak. However, their playing style is unique. The Leopards employ a counter-attacking hockey strategy and tend to play defensively. As a result, the squad under Sergey Zubov shows better scoring stats than their rivals, yet they still allow around four goals per match.
Following a loss to SKA (4-7), Sochi traveled for away games where they fell to Ak Bars (2-5) and Siberia (2-4). It's tough for goalie Sergey Ivanov, who has already conceded 20 goals and has a save percentage of 4.34. It seems unlikely that the Sochi team will change their hockey style, and they might continue to operate similarly, which could lead to them becoming the highest-scoring team against in the league.
Injuries and Suspensions
In the upcoming match, Garaev and Manukhov will be unavailable due to injuries.
Interesting Betting Trends
- In the first period, Sochi has a ratio of 5:12 in goals scored to goals allowed
The Leopards have been underwhelming in the opening segment, often falling behind as they struggle with speed.
- Sochi allows an average of 36 shots on goal per game
Sochi spends a significant amount of time in their zone, waiting for a chance to counterattack, which leads to their opponents taking many shots at goal.
Trends
Bet 1st Period: total over 1.5 goals
The first period has been high-scoring in the last five matchups between these teams
1.87Bet 2nd Period: both teams to score
In the last three head-to-head matches, both teams scored in the second period
2.35Tip and bets
It is challenging to clearly favor one team in this matchup as both are relatively evenly matched. Barys faces several challenges in attack, while Sochi is notably weak in defense. Additionally, it’s important to consider the recent change in their head coach, which could energize the team. Historically, Sochi has struggled on the road, often losing in regulation, suggesting that the Astana team has a better chance for a favorable outcome. Furthermore, in many past encounters against the Leopards, Barys has come out on top.
Prediction - Barys to win with a handicap (0) at 1.80
Betting on Individual Totals
We expect "Barys" to improve their offensive play this time as they understand that sitting back against Sochi is not an option. They will likely be more aggressive in the attacking zone. "Sochi" consistently concedes at least three goals and usually struggles to fend off their opponents. Thus, we recommend betting on the total for the home team.
Take the individual total for "Barys" at over 2.5 goals with odds of 1.65
Betting on Overall Totals
Previous matchups between these teams have often featured six or more goals. "Sochi" compels all opponents to play open hockey, even if they still end up losing. The "Leopards" are not accustomed to adopting a defensive style, making it quite likely that we will see at least six goals in the upcoming clash.
We are betting on a total of over 5.5 goals at odds of 1.85
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