Lokomotiv Moscow Edge CSKA Moscow in Pre-Season Derby
Match Result: Lokomotiv Moscow 1–0 CSKA Moscow
Competition: International Club Friendly
Date: 14 July 2026
In a tightly contested pre-season friendly, Lokomotiv Moscow claimed a narrow 1–0 victory over city rivals CSKA Moscow at the RZD Arena. The fixture served as an early test for both sides ahead of the new Russian Premier League campaign, and it was Lokomotiv who took the bragging rights with a second-half strike that decided the derby.
Match Overview
The match was played at a high tempo from the first whistle, with both teams eager to impose themselves. Lokomotiv dominated possession in the opening quarter, but CSKA’s defensive organisation kept them at bay. The breakthrough finally came in the 62nd minute when Lokomotiv’s Brazilian forward Wilson Isidor latched onto a through ball from Dmitri Barinov, rounded the goalkeeper, and slotted home from a tight angle.
CSKA pushed for an equaliser in the final half-hour, but Lokomotiv’s backline, marshalled by veteran centre-back Tin Jedvaj, held firm. The Army Men’s best chance came in the 78th minute when a powerful header from Fyodor Chalov was brilliantly saved by Lokomotiv goalkeeper Ilya Lantratov.
Key Moments
- 62' – Goal: Wilson Isidor (Lokomotiv Moscow) – clinical finish after a quick counter-attack.
- 78' – Save: Ilya Lantratov denies Fyodor Chalov’s header from point-blank range.
- 85' – Red card: CSKA’s Milan Gajić sees two yellow cards in quick succession for a late challenge and dissent.
Tactical Takeaway
Lokomotiv coach Mikhail Galaktionov employed a compact 4-2-3-1 shape, relying on quick transitions through the midfield trio of Barinov, Anton Miranchuk, and Daniil Kulikov. CSKA, under new boss Marko Nikolić, experimented with a 3-4-3 formation that provided width but left gaps in central defensive transitions—exposed for the only goal.
Both managers used the full complement of substitutes, giving valuable minutes to fringe players. Lokomotiv’s win, though only a friendly, will inject confidence into the squad as they prepare for the league opener.
Standout Players
- Wilson Isidor (Lokomotiv): Scored the winner and caused constant problems with his pace.
- Ilya Lantratov (Lokomotiv): Made several crucial saves to keep a clean sheet.
- Ivan Oblyakov (CSKA): Dictated play from midfield but lacked cutting edge in the final third.
This derby victory gives Lokomotiv Moscow an early psychological edge over their cross-town rivals, even in the context of pre-season. The teams may meet again in the upcoming RPL season, with much more at stake.