Lokomotiv 0–1 Neftekhimik 10/20/2026
20.10.2026
Neftekhimik got a win over Lokomotiv 0–1.
The first period was a closely contested affair. Neither team managed to tip the scales in their favor, and the sides headed into the first intermission with the score tied at 0–0.Neftekhimik looked the more active side in the opening five minutes; the visitors enjoyed significantly more puck possession and created several dangerous chances in front of Daniil Isayev’s net. However, the deciding factor was not the sharpness of their attacks, but rather a lack of precision – their shots simply failed to find the target. Neftekhimik sustained pressure in the Lokomotiv zone and eventually forced the hosts into a penalty, but Neftekhimik was unable to capitalize on the power play.
In fact, while shorthanded, Lokomotiv managed two dangerous counterattacks on Filipp Dolganov’s net. First, Alexander Polunin nearly broke away for a one–on–one with the goaltender, and shortly after, Giovanni Fiore surged down the left flank into the Neftekhimik zone, firing a shot from the boards that ultimately missed the mark.
Toward the end of the period, Neftekhimik regained the initiative. Viktor Andreichenko tested Isayev twice in quick succession, forcing the Lokomotiv goaltender to showcase his reflexes.
All in all, it was an action-packed first period. Filipp Dolganov had a bit more work to do, while Lokomotiv did an excellent job protecting the area in front of their own net, effectively keeping our players at bay.
The second period began with a sharp attack from Neftekhimik. Our top line managed to create a genuinely dangerous scoring opportunity. A play involving Andrei Belozyorov and Ivan Nikolishin set up Damir Zhafyarov for a prime scoring chance, but the Lokomotiv goaltender reacted in time to keep the puck from crossing the goal line.
Shortly thereafter, Neftekhimik faced a stern test: two minutes of shorthanded play. The team handled the pressure confidently. Later, the squad had to endure two more shorthanded stretches – a true challenge for Neftekhimik, but Lokomotiv withstood the immense pressure from their opponents and kept their net clean. This was the standout achievement of that stretch. Lokomotiv fired 18 shots on target, while another 12 attempts were blocked by Neftekhimik players. Defending their own zone to this extent demanded maximum concentration, self–sacrifice, and cohesion from the visitors – and the guys rose to the occasion.
After two scoreless periods, the tension in the game reached a boiling point. It was clear that a single goal could decide the outcome, and that is exactly what happened in the third period.
The turning point arrived when Alexander Radulov was assessed a two-minute penalty. Neftekhimik immediately ramped up the pressure on the Lokomotiv net. The power–play unit swarmed the opposition’s goal and managed to break through Lokomotiv's defense, with Andrei Belozyorov delivering an accurate shot.
This goal was more than just a game-winner – it made club history. Andrei set a new franchise record for goals scored in the KHL. Emotions ran high on the Neftekhimik bench, but the team remained focused and did not let their guard down. For the next 12 minutes, Neftekhimik fought with everything they had: tight defense, selfless shot–blocking, and a fierce battle for every inch of ice – all of which helped them hold onto their narrow lead.
The final score was 1–0 in favor of Neftekhimik. It was a victory earned through a grueling, grinding contest. Credit goes to the guys – they stood firm when the pressure was at its peak and secured vital points in a tense, hard–fought game.
Upcoming game:
DATE OPPONENT TIME
10/22/2026 vs Avangard ⏰4:30 pm
