Sochi vs Vityaz: KHL Match Preview
Sochi will face Vityaz again at home. The Leopards suffered a defeat in their previous matchup against the Warriors and will aim to redeem themselves in front of their fans. However, they must focus on correcting their mistakes if they hope to succeed. Is it wise to bet on Sochi's victory? Find out in our prediction.

Command Analysis

HC Sochi

Current Form
Sochi remains at the bottom of the Western Conference standings, sharing points with Kuntlun. The club’s situation mirrors last season, and improvement seems unlikely. The Leopards unexpectedly pulled off a three-game winning streak, defeating Severstal 1-0, Admiral 5-0, and Dynamo Minsk 3-2. In those matches, the Sochi goalkeeper was outstanding, helping the team allow fewer than three goals against.
In their matchup against Vityaz, Sergei Zubov’s team conceded two goals by the 18th minute and struggled to mount a comeback. Nonetheless, Sochi continues to show solid play in penalty-killing situations, with a 13.6% success rate. On the offensive front, the team has been weak, as no player has yet surpassed ten points in the goals-assists tally.
Disqualifications and Injuries
Manukhov will miss the upcoming game due to injury.
Interesting Betting Trends
- On average, Sochi allows opponents to take at least 35 shots on goal
Sochi tends to play defensively, waiting for the right moment to counterattack.
- The Leopards have a goal differential of 7:16 in the first period
Sochi often struggles in the opening period, frequently allowing opponents to gain the upper hand.

Vityaz

Current Form
Vityaz is in ninth place in the Western Conference with 12 points. The Bogatyrs are closely trailing their opponent in points and have shown similar performance this season. However, it is clear that the team is currently in optimal shape, celebrating victories in three of their last four matches. Their only defeat came against Moscow Dynamo (0-3), but prior to that, they secured wins over Barys (2-0) and Kunlun (7-2).
The club performs well on power plays, boasting a 20.4% conversion rate. Interestingly, none of the top three forwards have reached the 10-point mark in goals and assists, although players like Buchelnikov and Chekhovich have crossed that threshold. On the defensive end, Vityaz faces significant challenges, typically allowing three or more goals per game.
Injuries and Suspensions
In the upcoming match, Vashchenko will be sidelined due to injury.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Vityaz averages eight hits per game.
The Bogatyrs have not been playing aggressively this season, focusing more on results than physical play.
- The Bogatyrs have a goal differential of 7-10 in the third period.
The team struggles in the third period, scoring less compared to other segments.
Trends
Bet 1st Period: Total Over 1.5 Goals
In four of the last five matchups, the first period has seen at least two goals
1.90Bet 2nd Period: Away Team Victory
In three of the last five games, the visiting team secured the second period
2.45Tip and bets
We believe that Vityaz can secure two points in the upcoming match. In their last game, the Knights outperformed their rivals, creating more scoring opportunities. The guests have been effective in their finishing, while the Leopards have struggled with their scoring throughout the season. Additionally, Pavel Desyatkov's team has already defeated the Leopards twice this month. Given this trend, we suggest betting on their victory once again.
Prediction - Vityaz to win with a handicap (0) at 1.69
Bet on Individual Total
Sochi typically struggles defensively and concedes plenty of goals. If the Leopards' goalie doesn't put in an outstanding performance, they are likely to allow at least three goals. Vityaz consistently finds scoring opportunities against Sochi and capitalizes on them, making a wager on their individual total worthwhile.
We recommend betting on Vityaz's individual total over 2.5 goals at 1.65
Bet on Total Goals
Previous matches between these teams have been high-scoring, often exceeding five goals. Vityaz does not play a defensive style and continuously seeks scoring chances in the opponent's zone. The home team also plays an aggressive brand of hockey, often conceding goals in the process.
We suggest betting on the total to exceed 5.5 goals at 1.90