LiontipsZenit vs Lokomotiv. Prediction and Betting Tips for Russian Premier League (May 2, 2021).
Command Analysis
Zenitplayed poorly in the starting segment of the season, but after leaving the Champions League, Sergei Semak's team put all their strength into the Premier League, which immediately had an effect. Spartak were quickly thrown off the first line of the standings and the club from St. Petersburg became the leader, though you can't call their position unthreatened.
With 58 points, Zenit are six points ahead of the second Lokomotiv. Spartak are already eight points behind and is not a threat. After the winter break, Zenit made several gross mistakes, but then pulled themselves together and in the last six matches they lost points only once when they drew Krasnodar (2:2).
In the previous round, Zenit wiped out Rotor with a score of 6:0, so they are now on a six-game streak of no losses and are keeping Lokomotiv at safe distance.
Lokomotiv also had a weak first half of the season - Marko Nikolic's team was in the middle of the table and could hardly be called a contender for the Europa League. In the last game before the winter break, Lokomotiv lost 2:3 to Khimki, which was their third defeat in a row - it seemed at the time, there there was no end to the crisis.
However, after the winter break, Lokomotiv have changed almost beyond recognition - the club gains victory after victory in the league, Loko made it to the Russian Cup final and is currently challenging Zenit to the gold medals. Since they are six points behind Zenit, Lokomotiv only play to win. At the same time, they have not yet secured a ticket to the Champions League - Spartak are only two points away and want to get to the second place.
In the last round, Lokomotiv beat Tambov 5:2, having won 11 games in a row in all tournaments.
Trends
СтавкаCorrect score 2:0
Two of the last four games of Lokomotiv ended with this score.
СтавкаLokomotiv won't score
Zenit have not conceded in their last three home games.
СтавкаZenit to score in 1st half
Zenit have scored in the first half in their last two home games.
СтавкаPenalty: yes
Penalties were given in the last two league games with Lokomotiv's participation.
Tip and bets
Zenit are confidently approaching the end of the season and the next title, but today the reigning champion of Russia will have to pass a difficult test. Lokomotiv have gained excellent form and won 11 games in a row - yet another success will allow the Red-greens to come closer to the leader, leaving just three points gap between them. Of course, Zenit will try to avoid that.
Despite their amazing form, Lokomotiv can't be called the favorite of the match - Zenit's form is excellent, too, they have improved the attack, and they are playing at home - a serious advantage. In addition, Zenit have room for mistake, so they won't have as much pressure as their counterpart.
We believe that guests won't be able to win. The prediction is Zenit to win.
Zenit can afford to play defensively - they will neither open up from the first minutes nor take any risks. Lokomotiv play pragmatic and balanced football, also relying on defense, so given the importance of the game, we don't expect to see many goals.
Our second bet will be total under 3 goals.
