Penalty Shoot-Out Victory

Lokomotiv won the penalty shoot-out against Brondby in the second Atlantic Cup fixture.

There was one change to Lokomotiv’s starting eleven as compared to the last match. Fernandes replaced Miranchuk in the line-up. And it was Manuel who had the best chance of scoring in the first half. Receiving a service from Samedov, the Portuguese shot from the verge of the six-yard box – over the bar.

Neither side carved out any more real goal opportunities. The main battle was concentrated in the middle third - and it was a ragged affair. Brondby won a couple of corners whereupon twice they fouled against Guilherme. Lokomotiv responded with a free kick but it was blocked by the wall.

In half-time, our coaches made three simultaneous substitutions. Abaev, Miranchuk and Kolomeytsev livened up play considerably. If it weren’t for Toppel’s excellent performance that night, Lokomotiv would have taken the lead. Brondby keeper rescued his side twice: once from the five meters’ bullet from Skuletic, and later from Samedov’s attempt. Fifteen minutes to go, more players were substituted. In came Rifat Zhemaletdinov, appearing first time ever for the main squad.

However, full time – just as it was in the previous encounter – ended in a draw. In the penalties, Abaev was brilliant saving three shots.

Loko’s rival in the next clash is going to be FC Aarhus from Denmark. The game is scheduled for Sunday at 21:00 Moscow.

Atlantic Cup. Second game

Lokomotiv - Brondby - 0:0. On penalties - 3:2

Lokomotiv: Guilherme (Abaev,46), Yanbaev (Zhemaletdinov, 75), Mykhalyk (Sheshukov, 75), Pejcinovic, Denisov (Shishkin, 62), Ndinga, Tarasov (Kolomeytsev, 46), Fernandes (Miranchuk, 46), Samedov, Kasaev (Makarov, 75), Skuletic (Barinov, 68)
Brondby: Toppel, Omskov, Johansen, Yuelsgard, Austin (Crone, 68), Norgaard, Boysen (Bruus, 77), Eriksson, Silva (Hjulsager, 68), Elmander (Pukki, 77)
Referee: Goncalo Martins
4 February. Portugal, Algarve stadium