The 2025/2026 First League season continues with the opening fixtures of its 33rd matchday scheduled for May 8th. Fans can look forward to a trio of games that will impact both the top and bottom of the league table.
The action begins with two simultaneous kick-offs at 18:00 Moscow time. In one fixture, the struggling side Chaika hosts Chernomorets in a crucial encounter for teams near the relegation zone. At the same time, league leaders Fakel welcome SKA-Khabarovsk to their home ground, aiming to consolidate their position at the summit.
The final match of the day is set for 20:30 Moscow time, featuring a clash between Rodina and Chelyabinsk. This game is particularly significant as Rodina currently occupies the second spot in the standings, making every point vital in their pursuit of the top position.
Heading into this round, the battle for promotion and survival is sharply defined. Fakel from Voronezh leads the pack with an impressive 64 points accumulated from their 32 matches played so far. They are closely pursued by Rodina, who sit just two points behind on 62 points, having also completed 32 games.
The race for the remaining promotion spots is tight, with Ural holding third place on 58 points and Rotor in fourth with 52 points. The competition remains fierce as the season enters its decisive phase.
At the other end of the table, the fight to avoid relegation is equally intense. Chernomorets finds itself in a precarious position with 29 points. They are joined in the danger zone by Chaika and Sokol, both locked on 22 points, highlighting the precarious situation for these clubs as the season winds down.
These May 8th fixtures offer a chance for the leading clubs to extend their advantage and for those at the bottom to secure precious points in their battle for survival. The outcomes will be critical in shaping the final league standings.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.
