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Vityaz vs Kunlun: KHL Match Preview and Prediction
The Vityaz team is back on home ice after a challenging away series and will face Kunlun on October 3. This marks the first encounter of the season between the two teams, adding extra excitement to the upcoming match. Red Star has gained solid momentum, consistently defeating opponents on the road. The question remains whether they can maintain this performance. Our experts will address this and other queries in their betting tip, where you can also find optimal betting options.
Command Analysis
Vityaz
Russian FederationCurrent Form
Vityaz recently wrapped up a three-game road trip, starting with a heavy loss to Admiral 3-6. Goalkeeper Shikin had a rough outing, being replaced in the second period after conceding four goals, with his replacement Dorozhko also struggling to instill confidence. The team then faced Amur, where they again couldn't withstand the pressure, allowing too many dangerous chances and losing 2-3. They partially redeemed themselves in a matchup against Barys, where Dorozhko bounced back, recording his second shutout of the season by saving all 32 shots.
Overall, the start to the regular season has not been promising for Deсятkov's squad. Currently, the club sits at their usual second-to-last position in the Western Conference standings with only eight points. Since last season, Vityaz has failed to address their main issue, continuing to struggle with offensive efficiency, averaging just 2.4 goals per game.
Suspensions and Injuries
Another factor contributing to the club's poor performances is their roster issues. Three forwards, Ilya Arkalov, Vladimir Galuzin, and Vladislav Tsitsura, along with defenseman Grigory Vashchenko, are currently sidelined.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Vityaz is converting only 17.4% of power plays this season.
Due to their scoring struggles, Vityaz is unable to capitalize even with a one-player advantage on the ice.
- The team averages 8.5 minutes of penalty time per game.
There remain serious concerns about the club’s discipline, as they incur too many unnecessary penalties, disrupting their overall game.
HC Red Star Kunlun
ChinaCurrent Form
Kunlun has entered the regular season in poor shape, currently sitting in ninth place in the standings. Red Star consistently concedes a high number of goals, which is the main reason for their many defeats. The club just completed a home series of two matches where they displayed disappointing results, losing first to Torpedo (2-4) and then to Dinamo Minsk (1-3). It's important to note that in both games, the team created several scoring opportunities, but faced significant issues with finishing.
It seemed the players coached by Kravets would continue this trend on the road, but in a surprising turn, they managed to defeat SKA St. Petersburg 5-4. The top line performed exceptionally well offensively, collectively recording eight points. This unexpected victory against a clear favorite seems to have boosted the club's confidence, enabling them to solidify their success with a decisive win over Salavat Yulaev (5-2). This time, Kunlun performed admirably, outshooting their Ufa rivals, with forward Lockhart earning praise for scoring a goal and providing two assists.
Injuries and Suspensions
Kunlun has minimal issues with their lineup, with only defenseman Doyle Somerby remaining on the injured list.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Kunlun averages 3.7 goals conceded per match
The primary issue for Red Star continues to be their weak defensive play. The team struggles to contain opponents and consistently allows them to exploit their full potential.
- Red Star averages only 27 shots per match
Kunlun's offense has been lackluster this season and rarely produces a high volume of shots on target.
Trends
Bet First Goal: «Vityaz»
In four out of five encounters, «Vityaz» scored first
1.80Bet Goal in Every Period - No
In three out of four matches, neither team scored in every period
2.45Tip and bets
Vityaz has a great opportunity to kick off their home series with a win as they face a rival of similar caliber. Indeed, Kunlun has managed two victories against clear favorites, but such outcomes are rare for the team, and they've expended considerable energy to secure those points. It's also important to note that Red Star will be playing their third consecutive away game, which is likely to impact them due to the fatigue from constant travel. For these reasons, we recommend placing a bet on the home team.
Our prediction is a victory for Vityaz in the match at 1.70
Total Bet
The upcoming match is likely to be high-scoring, as both teams struggle with defensive reliability and rely on their attacking strength to make up for it, especially Red Star. Therefore, we recommend opting for a total over bet.
Prediction - total over 5.5 goals at 1.80
First Period Outcome Bet
Vityaz, benefiting from home advantage, should start applying pressure on their opponent from the very first minutes. Considering the poor defensive performance of Kunlun, the Podolsk team has a good chance to secure a lead by the end of the opening period.
Prediction - Vityaz to win in the first period at 2.57
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