Aleksandr Ektov

① Nizhny Novgorod and Sochi field balanced lineups with a cautious approach.

② Midfield battles could decide the tempo and shape of the game.

③ Both teams have goals in them, leaning toward a tight 1-1 draw.

① Lokomotiv's squad quality and home advantage should control the match.

② Nizhny Novgorod may struggle to break through; Lokomotiv's front line could finish chances.

③ Recent results favor Lokomotiv; a clean sheet is plausible, leading to 2-0.