CSKA vs Salavat Yulaev: KHL Match Predictions
On October 8, CSKA aims to redeem themselves in front of their home crowd after suffering two consecutive losses, facing the challenging team Salavat Yulaev, who are also currently struggling. However, their recent matchups have consistently favored the team from Ufa. Should you place a bet on their victory based solely on head-to-head results? Find out in our expert prediction.

Command Analysis

CSKA Moscow

Current Form
CSKA remains among the top five teams in the Western Conference, but they risk dropping significantly in the rankings if their performance doesn't improve. The situation deteriorated after they lost at home to Metallurg Magnitogorsk with an astonishing score of 0-7. Following this setback, the team seemed unable to recover and suffered another shutout defeat, this time to Traktor, with a score of 0-4.
Ilia Vorobyov, the head coach of the red-blues, pointed out that the issue lies in their mentality after the match against Chelyabinsk, emphasizing that they need to get through this phase. Indeed, bouncing back into their previous rhythm after such a shocking loss is nearly impossible. CSKA has assembled a strong squad this season and is clearly vying for the Gagarin Cup, but they must first shake off the negativity and regain their confidence. Additionally, prior to these two consecutive losses, they were showcasing solid hockey and rarely left a game without scoring points.
Injuries and Suspensions
William is unavailable for the upcoming match due to injury.
Notable Betting Trends
- CSKA averages nine minutes of penalty time per game.
The team has struggled with discipline this season, accruing at least five penalties in several of their recent matches.
- CSKA boasts a 32.4% power play conversion rate.
The Moscow squad continues to excel on the power play, ranking second in the league for power play efficiency.

Salavat Yulaev Ufa

Current Form
Salavat started strong but has recently been alternating between wins and losses. The team had a favorable schedule, having played only nine matches up to this point. However, it seems the downtime hasn't benefited them, as after a victory against Traktor (5-3), they unexpectedly lost at home to Kunlun, 2-5, despite holding a comfortable two-goal lead and controlling the game until midway through the third period.
Similarly, after their match against Red Star, the Green squad also faced a week off, leaving uncertainty about their condition leading into the matchup against CSKA. Notably, Salavat has been effective offensively this season, typically scoring at least three goals per game, though they have also been conceding quite a few. The primary offensive hopes rest on Rempal, Livo, and Khmelevskiy, each of whom has accrued at least ten points via goals and assists.
Injuries and Suspensions
Kuzmin will miss the upcoming match due to injury.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Salavat wins 41.8% of faceoffs according to the stats.
The Ufa squad has struggled at the dot this season, ranking among the bottom clubs in the league for this statistic.
- They hold an 11-7 goal differential in the second period.
The Greens excel in the second period, and with longer benches, they have significantly more offensive options available.
Trends
Bet 1st period: total under 1.5 goals
In four out of five matches involving CSKA, the first period has been goalless
1.75Bet 2nd period: away team victory
In the last two encounters, CSKA fell behind in the second period
3.05Tip and bets
After two disappointing matches, it's unwise to view CSKA as the favorites in their clash against the Ufa team. Moreover, Salavat has had ample time to prepare and analyze their opponent in detail. Viktor Kozlov knows exactly how to approach the army team's system and exploit its weaknesses. The home side had just a couple of days to recover, making it unlikely they have fully bounced back from such heavy losses. We believe the visitors should be able to push the game at least into overtime.
Prediction – Salavat will not lose at odds of 1.79
Bet on Individual Total
In recent matches, CSKA has faced significant challenges in creating and converting scoring opportunities. After allowing 11 goals in two games, the team will likely focus more on defense than offense. It's also noteworthy that in four of the last five meetings against the Moscow team, the "greens" have kept a clean sheet. Given these factors, we recommend betting on the individual total for the home team.
We suggest placing a bet on CSKA's individual total of under three goals at 1.74
Bet on Overall Total
CSKA has stumbled in two consecutive matches, conceding numerous goals, while Salavat remembers their foolish loss to Kunlun. Both teams are likely to play cautiously and will aim to operate defensively. Additionally, it's important to note that three of the last five games between them ended with five or fewer goals scored.
We recommend betting on a total of under 5.5 goals with odds of 1.80