SKA vs Avtomobilist: KHL Match Preview
On October 12, SKA will continue their home series, which got off to a rocky start. The team aims to redeem themselves in their matchup against Automobilist. Our experts are here to identify the most promising betting options for this upcoming game. The Yekaterinburg squad has been on a great roll, but will they rise to the occasion once again? Find the answer in our detailed prediction.

Command Analysis

SKA St. Petersburg

Current Form
SKA managed to end their road trip on a high note, clinching a hard-fought overtime victory over Lokomotiv 4-3. Once again, defensive issues plagued the team, as they allowed a staggering 48 shots on goal, with only the outstanding performance of goalkeeper Pleshkoff securing the win. Notably, the first line's offensive unit struggled dramatically, failing to register any points. Previously, SKA suffered a 3-4 defeat against Severstal due to similar defensive shortcomings, leaving Pleshkoff helpless this time around.
Back on home ice, Rotenberg's squad faced Dynamo Minsk, suffering yet another defeat, this time 2-4. Even the comfort of their home arena couldn't help the Army men's defensive woes, as they conceded 39 shots from their opponents. The loss has severely impacted SKA's standing in the Western Conference, dropping them to fifth place with a total of 17 points.
Injuries and Suspensions
SKA continues to compete nearly at full strength, with only Artem Zemchenok on the injury list.
Interesting Betting Trends
- On average, SKA concedes 3.57 goals per game
As we've noted, the team's glaring defensive issues remain the primary cause of their losses.
- The Army men average 10 penalty minutes per game.
It's also important to highlight that SKA struggles with discipline, frequently finding themselves in the penalty box.

Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg

Current Form
So far this season, Avtomobilist has been performing excellently, currently sitting in second place in the Eastern Conference standings. They trail the Traktor team, who are tied on points but have played two games less. One of the club's strengths is its impressive offensive output, and if they can improve their defensive play, the Yekaterinburg side could easily surpass their Chelyabinsk rivals.
After a minor slump that included three consecutive losses, Avto redeemed itself in front of their fans with a determined 4-3 victory over Barys. Goaltender Alikin struggled, being replaced in the first period after conceding two quick goals. Following that, the team faced a stronger opponent in CSKA but managed to capitalize on the army team's inconsistent form, securing a win in the shootout, 4-3. The first line's attacking unit deserves recognition, having amassed six points in that game. Notably, the team has excelled on the road, remaining unbeaten in their last five away matches.
Injuries and Suspensions
Key forward Curtis Volk has yet to recover from his injury and will miss the upcoming match. Additionally, Daniil Romantsev remains sidelined.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Avtomobilist averages 26 shots on goal per game
Yekaterinburg boasts a highly efficient shot conversion rate, significantly contributing to their success.
- Avto concedes an average of 2.2 goals per game
The defensive line of Avtomobilist is performing admirably, rarely allowing opponents to fully exploit their offensive capabilities.
Trends
Bet First Goal: «Avtomobilist»
In four out of five head-to-head meetings, «Avtomobilist» scored first
2.40Bet Goal in Every Period - No
In four out of six encounters, neither team managed to score in every period
2.25Tip and bets
It is quite surprising that bookmakers have little faith in a victory for Avtomobilist, offering a high odds for their success that should be taken advantage of. Avto is currently one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference and importantly has regained form after a slump, consistently earning points once again. Meanwhile, the team from St. Petersburg is struggling, even losing to clear underdogs while playing on their home ice. Additionally, it's worth noting that the players from Yekaterinburg have been excellent on the road, remaining unbeaten in their last five away matches. We believe that Zavarykhins team will at the very least avoid a loss in regulation time, making this a worthy bet.
Our prediction - Avtomobilist will not lose at 2.20
Betting on Totals
As we have noted, SКА struggles significantly with its defensive play. Game after game, the team tries to offset this weakness with their offense, resulting in a high number of goals scored. This creates a great opportunity to place a bet on the over.
Prediction - total over 5.5 goals at 1.95
Betting on First Period Outcome
Automobilist often matches its opponents in the first period and rarely allows them to gain an advantage, even when playing on the road.
Prediction - Automobilist to not lose in the first period at 1.68