Spartak Moscow has solidified its dominance over city rivals CSKA in the Russian Cup, extending an impressive unbeaten run that now stretches back over a decade. The latest chapter in this streak was written in the final of the Path of Regions Fonbet Russian Cup for the 2025/2026 season, where Spartak secured a narrow 1-0 victory.
The decisive match was held at the Lukoil Arena in Moscow. This win marks another significant milestone for the red-and-whites, who have consistently proven to be a formidable opponent for the army men in this particular tournament.
The last time Spartak tasted defeat against CSKA in the Russian Cup was on May 11, 2011. That encounter occurred during the semi-final stage and was a dramatic affair. The match ended in a 3-3 draw after both regular and extra time, ultimately being decided by a penalty shootout where CSKA emerged victorious with a 5-4 scoreline.
Looking ahead in the Path of Regions RPL, the final will feature a clash between Moscow's Dynamo and Krasnodar. The first leg of their final concluded in a goalless 0-0 stalemate, setting the stage for an intriguing second leg to determine the champion.
It is worth noting that CSKA entered this season's tournament as the defending champions. In the previous edition's final, the army team defeated Rostov. That match also ended 0-0 after regulation time, with CSKA ultimately lifting the trophy after a tense penalty shootout that they won 4-3.
Spartak's victory not only denies CSKA a successful defense of their cup title but also reinforces the psychological edge the red-and-whites hold over their arch-rivals in knockout competition. The result adds another layer to the storied rivalry between Moscow's two most decorated clubs.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.