In their first match under Stanislav Cherchesov, Akhmat secured a 1–0 home victory over Zenit. The only goal came in the first half — an own goal by Drkusic.

 

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Cherchesov reflected on the result:

 

“I’m feeling positive. It was an important match and an important win, but this is only the beginning. In three days we play Orenburg, and then Krylia Sovetov. I told the players to celebrate for five minutes, then refocus and recover. I’d happily celebrate myself, but that’s your job. I was pleased to see that the fans are starting to understand what we’re aiming for. Through our performances, we will do our best  to fill the stadium.”

 

Akhmat vs Zenit – 1–0 (1–0)

9 August 2025. Kick-off: 20:30

Grozny, Akhmat Arena – Attendance: 4,769

Weather: +26°C, partly cloudy

 

Referees: Bulanov (Saransk), Mosyakin (Moscow), Bereznov (Moscow)

VAR: Karasev (Moscow), Galimov (Ulan-Ude)

 

Akhmat: Shelia, Ghandri, Ndong, Bogosavac, Sidorov, Ismael, Keliano, Kasintura, Sadulaev (Todorovic, 70), Samorodov (Gadzhiev, 58), Melkadze (Konate, 61)

 

Zenit: Latyshonok, Drkusic (Vega, 46), Erakovic, Douglas Santos, Mantuan (Mostovoy, 62), Barrios, Wendel, Gerson (Alip, 80), Pedro (Gondo, 46), Luis Henrique (Cassierra, 62), Sobolev

 

Goal: Drkusic (30, own goal)

 

Bookings: Keliano (48), Todorović (86), Ghandri (90), Shelia (90) – Erakovic (5)