On Friday, 26 July, the second round of the RPL will open. Krylia Sovetov will play at home against Rostov. The Samara team has fallen back to last place after the defeat at the hands of Zenit. Valeriy Karpin's team did better - a goalless draw with CSKA.

Krylia Sovetov are very difficult to evaluate based on the game with Zenit. This is not a match where you can understand the true potential. Samara tried to act boldly, played attacking football, but the attack lacked the skill to implement, and the defence simply failed. Zenit's quick performers easily left their opponents out of position on the dribble. There were a lot of simple mistakes from the defenders, and goalkeeper Ivan Lomaev is far from his best form. It is possible that Sergei Pesyakov will be out for the match in Rostov.

Krylia Sovetov still have young talents capable of progressing. In particular, midfielder Sergei Babkin played a very high-quality match in the first round. There are far fewer questions about creation than defence.

Rostov showed themselves very well against CSKA. The match went with the advantage of the south. Karpin's team created more chances, although they didn't dominate. It is important that the defence managed to contain the dangerous players of the Army team: the visitors had only one shot on goal during the entire match. New goalkeeper Rustam Yatimov kept the goal intact. Zero draws are definitely not in the style of Valeri Karpin's strategy. Rostov remain a "top" team in spirit.

The southerners have a very powerful attack, where Ronaldo is gradually becoming the leader. Unfortunately, Rostov cannot count on one of the best players of last season, Mohammed Mohebi. The Iranian will miss a month after an operation. While Karpin is giving young Aznaurov a chance.

Rostov and Krylya Sovetov have been enjoying goal performances lately: four of six matches have been on a total of more than three goals, there have been no nil draws, three meetings have been on a total of more than three goals, and twice they have scored six goals each.

Now Samara will definitely not give up their style. If the club played bravely against Zenit, it will not be afraid of Rostov's pressing. There are a lot of preconditions for attacking football, but according to the odds bookmakers allow for a cautious scenario. Such a match could get a base total of three goals. While the teams have no serious pressure, personal meetings speak in favour of open football, it is doubtful that in case of a draw they will decide to play cautiously. There are also questions about Krylia's status as favourites. The home field factor is more of a tribute here, but Rostov will definitely not be satisfied with a peaceful outcome, based on their objectives for the season.