SKA-Khabarovsk — Sokol Saratov : Match Preview and Prediction for October 18,2025

SKA-Khabarovsk: Current Form and Promotion Ambitions

After 14 rounds, SKA-Khabarovsk currently occupies the 8th position in the league standings. With only a 5-point deficit separating them from 4th place, Khabarovsk is actively engaged in the battle for promotion to a higher division. Over the last month, Poddubsky’s squad has only been defeated by Rodina (in both league and cup competitions). In contrast, they secured impressive victories against Chernomorets, Shinnik, and Ural. Their win in Yekaterinburg is particularly notable, given SKA’s generally less consistent performances away from home. However, when playing on their home ground, the team traditionally loses very rarely.

Solid Home Defense

It is imperative to highlight the defensive strength demonstrated by the home side at the Lenin Stadium in Khabarovsk. Across 7 matches played there, they have conceded a mere 6 goals, showcasing a robust and disciplined backline.

Sokol Saratov: Bottom of the Table Struggles

Sokol Saratov is currently positioned at the very bottom of the league table. In 14 matches, the visiting team has accumulated a mere 10 points, with only one of these points earned away from home, which occurred in the opening round. Consequently, Sokol is now on a dire run of 5 consecutive defeats. Over the last 6 rounds, they have managed to score just 2 goals, marking the worst attacking record in the entire League. Overall, the offensive efforts of the Saratov players are extremely infrequent, with Shpitalny being the only individual to have scored more than one goal for the team.

Coaching Under Scrutiny

However, it would be incorrect to assert that the visiting squad possesses a weak roster. They have several quality players, but a cohesive system of play is notably absent. This raises significant questions concerning the head coach. Kascelan barely managed to keep Sokol in the First League last season, and now he faces the serious risk of the team failing to climb out of the relegation zone.