CSKA Moscow vs FC Baltika Kaliningrad preview, prediction, head-to-head, team news, possible line-ups, and betting tips

Adesoji Michael

Adesoji Michael is a professional sports journalist and betting expert, delivering insightful analysis, match previews, and data-driven predictions. With a strong grasp of betting markets and storytelling, I help readers make informed decisions while enjoying the thrill of sports. Connect with me on socials for more insightful content.

4 Minutes Read
September 17, 2025

A classic David vs. Goliath encounter is set to take place in the Russian Premier League this weekend as title-chasing CSKA Moscow host struggling newcomers FC Baltika Kaliningrad at the VEB Arena. On paper, this is a significant mismatch, with the Moscow giants expected to dominate proceedings from start to finish. CSKA are in formidable form and have turned their home ground into a fortress, while Baltika are finding life in the top flight difficult, particularly on their travels.

For bettors, the challenge lies in finding value in a match with such a heavy favourite. While a home win seems almost certain, the key markets may lie in the margin of victory and the potential for a clean sheet. This match preview will analyse all the critical data, team news, and expert tips to help you navigate the odds.

CSKA Moscow vs FC Baltika Kaliningrad Match Preview

Team Recent Form

The recent form guide paints a clear picture of two clubs on opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of confidence and results.

CSKA Moscow: WWDWW

FC Baltika Kaliningrad: LDLLW

Key Stats

Here are three crucial statistics for punters to consider before placing their bets:

CSKA Moscow have kept a clean sheet in their last 3 home league matches.
FC Baltika Kaliningrad have failed to score in 4 of their last 5 away fixtures in the Russian Premier League.
CSKA have won their last 5 meetings against Baltika, scoring 12 goals and conceding just 1 in the process.

Our prediction for this match is a comfortable 2-0 victory for CSKA Moscow. The home side’s defensive organisation at the VEB Arena has been exceptional this season, and it is difficult to see how Baltika’s struggling attack will create any clear-cut chances. CSKA possess more than enough quality in the final third to break down what will likely be a deep-lying defence, and we expect them to secure a professional, routine win without needing to hit top gear.

CSKA Moscow vs FC Baltika Kaliningrad H2H

CSKA Moscow have won the last 5 meetings against FC Baltika Kaliningrad in all competitions.
FC Baltika Kaliningrad have not scored a single goal against CSKA in their last 4 encounters.
CSKA Moscow were leading at both half-time and full-time in 4 of those 5 victories.
The last time Baltika secured even a draw against the Moscow giants was over a decade ago in a Russian Cup tie.

Pre-game Odds

The pre-match odds highlight the massive gulf in quality and expectation between the two teams.

CSKA Moscow: 1.18
Draw: 7.50
FC Baltika Kaliningrad: 15.00

Team News CSKA Moscow

CSKA manager Marko Nikolić has an almost fully available squad. Star striker Fyodor Chalov is expected to be fit to lead the line despite picking up a minor training ground knock earlier in the week. With a busy schedule of fixtures ahead, veteran midfielder Alan Dzagoev may be rested, with the dynamic Ivan Oblyakov potentially taking his place in the starting eleven to offer more energy.

Team News FC Baltika Kaliningrad

Baltika’s difficult task is made even harder by a significant defensive blow. The team will travel to Moscow without their captain and most experienced defender, Aslan Dudiyev, who has been ruled out for the season with a serious knee injury. Manager Sergei Ignashevich is expected to set his team up in a low block, likely fielding a five-man defence in an attempt to contain CSKA’s potent attack.