Spartak vs Ak Bars: KHL Match Preview and Prediction

Current Form

Ak Bars is currently positioned fifth in the Eastern Conference and is struggling to significantly improve its standings. However, the team recently enjoyed an impressive seven-game winning streak, earning valuable points. Unfortunately, they faced setbacks in their last two matches against Amur (1:2) and Siberia (3:6), both resulting in regulation time losses. In each instance, the Kazan squad entered the games as clear favorites, but their performance declined from the first period onward, conceding two goals early against Amur and four against Siberia, showing a complete defensive breakdown.

Clearly, Anvar Gatiyatulin needed to draw the right lessons from these defeats and communicate to his players the necessity of sharper focus in the opening minutes. It's worth noting that the team has encountered defensive issues before but managed to compensate with strong offensive play, often finding success in regulation. Notably, four players on the roster have surpassed the 10-point mark in the goals-plus-assists column: Barabanov, Galimov, Petan, and Yashkin.

Injuries and Suspensions

There are no injured or suspended players in the Ak Bars lineup.

Interesting Betting Trends

• Ak Bars holds an 8:6 record in goals scored and allowed during the second period.

The Kazan team often struggles to find the net in the second period, likely due to concerns about the opponent's counterattacks.

• The "Greens" average 36 shots on goal per game.

Ak Bars displays strong offensive capabilities, consistently scoring and generating numerous shots on opponents' goal.