1st Vs 2nd at Energetik
League leaders FC Minsk travel across the city for a local derby against Energetik-BGU who occupy second place. Both sides have enjoyed an impressive start to the season, picking up the maximum six points thus far. This form has come despite them finishing ninth and 12th last term, with Energetik being the latter, just three points above the relegation trapdoor. Minsk are narrow favourites for this one and are only their opponents’ superior in the league on goals scored, this top of the table clash should be entertaining for neutral viewing.
Recent form
In contrast to their gameweek one affair, the Students were involved in a low scoring game, defeating Rukh Brest by a goal to nil last time out thanks to Daniil Miroshnikov’s 43rd minute strike. This result came immediately after beginning their campaign in epic fashion, beating 2019 runners up BATE Borisov 3-1 at home.
Minsk have bagged three in both of their matches, putting newly promoted Belshina Bobruisk to the sword 3-1 on the opening weekend before backing that up in another Minsk derby, 3-2 over Dinamo. Uladzimir Khvashchynski got on the scoresheet in both of those outings and shares the top of the scoring charts with Energetik’s Jasur Yakhshiboev who notched a brace against BATE.
Ones to watch
Yakhshiboev joined the hosts in the off season from Uzbekistan topflight outfit FK AGMK Olmaliq, the wideman took the number seven jersey and moved his career goal tally from three to five in his first match for the Students. Certainly hitting the ground running in what Vladimir Belyavskiy will be hoping can be a breakout season for the Uzbekistan international. He is still only 22, so will add some youthful exuberance to the second placed sides attacking contingent, looking strong to avoid flirting with relegation speculation this season.
Moving on to the other man on two goals for the season in this matchup, Uladzimir Khvashchynski is on loan at FC Minsk from Shakhtyor Soligorsk, a move that may come under criticism should Minsk remain above Soligorsk in the table. He bagged the opener in the last outing and is an experienced campaigner in the division now approaching his peak aged 29.
This top of the table clash is set up for a cracker, Minsk matches so far have averaged 4.5 goals so going over in this one should be a safe bet.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
Energetik-BGU maintained their 100% record and only conceded two shots on goal in a comfortably 2-0 victory over now third-placed FC Minsk.