ЦСКА secured a 3:0 victory over Махачкала in the Russian Cup on Wednesday, September 24. The away side dominated from the opening whistle, leaving the hosts with a third consecutive defeat. This result moves ЦСКА up to second place in the standings, while Махачкала remain rooted at the bottom with no points from two matches.
We had called for this outcome before kick-off, putting 80 per cent confidence on the visitors. It was a straightforward case — the gap between the two sides showed clear in the way ЦСКА worked the channels and punished Махачкала for every mistake. The hosts simply could not keep their heads under pressure.
ЦСКА had already lost once in two games, but this performance changed the narrative entirely. They came out here to prove something, and the result speaks for itself. Махачкала, by contrast, have now dropped three straight fixtures and cannot afford another slip if they want to climb away from the foot of the table.
There were no dramatic moments, no red cards, no late drama — just a professional display from the visitors. The scoreline reflected the match, though perhaps even flattered Махачкала given how often they looked vulnerable. ЦСКА kept their shape, moved the ball well, and scored when opportunities arose.
What this means going forward is simple. ЦСКА hold every card in their hands now — three points from two matches puts them in a strong position. Махачкала have opened talks with no points on the board, and the pressure will mount quickly if they do not respond.
