Rubin Kazan head coach Frank Artiga has shared his thoughts ahead of the highly anticipated Matchday 29 clash against Spartak Moscow in the Mir Russian Premier League. The Kazan side enters the fixture riding an impressive nine-match unbeaten streak this spring, a run of form that has defined their second half of the season.
When asked about the team's momentum and whether it's disappointing that the season is drawing to a close, Artiga expressed his desire to finish strong. "We very much hope to play this spring stretch at the highest possible level," the coach stated. He acknowledged the significance of the unbeaten run but preferred not to dwell on it excessively. "I don't really like to talk about it often because streaks end sooner or later. But we believe we can extend it for at least two more upcoming matches," Artiga added, signaling his ambition to carry the momentum into the final fixtures.
Artiga also addressed the scheduling factor, noting that Spartak had less preparation time due to their Russian Cup semi-final match earlier in the week. However, the Rubin coach did not believe this would be a decisive disadvantage for their opponents. Instead, he offered high praise for Spartak's remarkable spring campaign, which has seen them surge to fourth place in the league standings and secure a spot in the Russian Cup Super Final.
"Spartak, like Rubin, is having a very strong spring stretch, and the team has made an incredible leap in the championship, moving up to fourth place and reaching the Cup Super Final," Artiga remarked. He further acknowledged that Spartak's recent victory over CSKA Moscow in the cup could serve as an additional motivational boost heading into the weekend fixture.
The upcoming match carries significant weight for both clubs as the RPL season enters its final stretch. Rubin will be looking to protect their unbeaten record and climb the table, while Spartak aims to consolidate their top-four position and maintain the positive momentum generated by their cup success.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.
