Xomuxa: Zenit's slow start is now a systemic problem

CSKA team veteran Dmitriy Khomuha shared his thoughts on the draw against "Zenit" in an interview with the online publication "Euro-Futbol.Ru". This was reported by Euro-football.ru.

When asked if CSKA played better than expected, Khomuha replied: “I don't think so. Last year, CSKA also earned points against 'Zenit' in St. Petersburg.

The game was even. Even the army team could have won in the last minutes.” When asked how CSKA's opening the scoring affected the game, Khomuha said: “This result forced Sergey Semak's team to act more actively.

They tried to attack more, and that created open spaces. These opportunities could have been utilized.”

It was also noted that although "Zenit" had the advantage at the beginning of the game, it was unexpected for CSKA to open the scoring. Khomuha commented on this: “That's right, 'Zenit' was attacking more.

But football is such a sport – after a small mistake, the opponent can open the scoring. It happened this time as well; Alerandro effectively took advantage of his opportunity,” he said.

Regarding the penalty awarded in favor of "Zenit" and the refereeing issue, Khomuha stated: “This is a simple situation. Krugovoy touched the opponent's leg.

Danil should have been more cautious since the striker was moving away from the goal and there was no dangerous situation. One must not give the referee a reason to award a penalty.

However, football is a game of emotions; not everything can be controlled,” he explained. About "Zenit" starting the season openly difficult, he said: “This is due to the presence of injured players in the team and the main lineup not being complete.

The new players have not yet adapted. This is the second season that Semak's team is starting the championship with problems.

This is now becoming a systemic issue,” Khomuha said. Regarding how CSKA started the season, he noted: “The team had a good start.

The army team won the Super Cup and is consistently collecting points. They played evenly with 'Zenit' and were not inferior to the opponent.

Can the Moscow team compete for the championship? If they do not acquire a strong striker, they will not be able to withstand a long-term struggle.

The current squad is not sufficient for the championship,” Khomuha concluded. Elena Grigoryevskaya