Russian Premier League enters the final stage and every game is like a mini final now for those chasing the title. Reigning champions Zenit will be facing their unofficial farmclub on Sunday. While many expect the match to be not particularly played out in the fair spirit of the game, I am not going to put a lot of emphasis on it.

All accusations aside, Zenit has enough reasons to be considered a big favourite in this tie. Since Dinamo St.Petersburg was moved to Sochi and re-named to FC Sochi and in the tough time were given around 10 Zenit players to be able to stay in the Premier League, Sochi have lost all games to Zenit in the Premier League + 1 friendly. 2:0, 2:1, 2:1 and 3:1 are the scorelines from previous encounters.

It is fair to say that Zenit is not a comfortable opponent for Sochi. Furthermore, hosts are coming from a midweek Cup game against Lokomotiv (1-3) and will be lacking the necessary physical edge.

The southern coast club is expected to be without first choice goalkeeper Djanaev and influential winger Joaozinho - both injured. Otherwise, the squad is at full strength.

Zenit has been in flying form in past weeks, creating and scoring for fun even in the toughest games like the derby against CSKA (3-2 away win). They took easy care of Khimki in the previous round (2-0) and go into the Sunday game without a single injury concern.

I don’t think Zenit will allow themselves to lose essential points in this game and should return home with a win.