How Akron – Rotor will play on May 23: team uniforms, analytics, where the match will take place

The play-off matches for the right to compete in the RPL WORLD next season are entering a crucial phase. After the first match in Volgograd, the score in the confrontation was 2:0 in favor of Tolyatti Akron (Benshimola double). The return leg will be held in Samara, and for the yellow-blacks this is a great chance to formalize their stay in the elite, and for Rotor it is an opportunity to make a comeback and return to the Premier League. Both teams showed character in the first game, and now everything will be decided on a neutral field with the support of the fans. The history of the confrontation and the forecast for the outcome are in the material.

Form of commands

Akron Togliatti, under the leadership of acting head coach Murat Iskakov, had a difficult season in the RPL, but immediately took the initiative in the joints. In the first match in Volgograd, the team defended competently, and in the second half they realized the chances — Gilson Benshimol scored a double. Artyom Dzyuba was also in the starting lineup, adding experience and leadership skills. Akron is traditionally strong in attacking speed, standards and character. The key performers are Benshimol, Dzyuba, mid—line players and a reliable goalkeeper. After the change of coach, the team has received a new impetus and looks very motivated to keep their residence permit.

Dmitry Parfenov's "Rotor" Volgograd confidently moved to the top of the table in the First League season and earned the joints. The blue and yellow houses are traditionally aggressive, have a good selection of performers and experience in fighting. However, in the first match, they were unable to crack the Akron defense and conceded two goals after the break. The leaders are experienced offensive and defensive players who should add aggression and pressure in the second match. The coaching staff will certainly rely on high pressure from the first minutes, maximum activity and the use of the fans' home energy (although the match is in Samara).

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Match scenario, forecasts

The first meeting turned out to be tough and pragmatic: "Rotor" had the initiative at the beginning, but "Akron" caught its moments and confidently brought it to victory. Now, in the return game, Tolyatti residents will receive the support of the stands (the match will be held at the Solidarity Samara Arena), which traditionally adds to their confidence.

Akron looks preferable due to a comfortable two-goal advantage, the depth of the squad and a successful away game. However, we cannot relax — "Rotor" is extremely motivated, has excellent form at the end of the season and will go forward with great strength. Expect intense, combative football with lots of martial arts, standards and nerves. A lot will be decided by the realization of moments, the play of goalkeeping lines and physical readiness for the last minutes.

An open football scenario is likely: "Rotor" needs to score at least twice, so the home team (by status) will open up, and "Akron" will catch on the counterattack. One missed goal can dramatically escalate the intrigue, but two goals give the Tolyatti team a solid margin of safety.

The Akron–Rotor meeting will take place on May 23 at 18:30 Moscow time at the Solidarity Samara Arena.