CSK VVS Samara vs Gornyak-UGMK on 15 February
On February 15, 2026, fans will witness a thrilling battle in the VHL as CSK VVS Samara face off against Gornyak-UGMK at the CSK VVS Ice Arena. With both teams looking to cement their place in the upper echelons of the standings, this encounter promises to be one full of intensity and tactical intricacies. With so much at stake, every pass, shot, and check will carry weight as both teams aim to secure crucial points. For Samara, a victory could propel them into the playoff spots, while Gornyak-UGMK needs a strong performance to keep their title hopes alive.
CSK VVS Samara: Tactical Approach and Current Form
CSK VVS Samara come into this clash with a mixed run of form. Over their last five games, they’ve posted a 2-1-2 record, with their most recent victory coming in a hard-fought 4-3 win over HC Kurbatov. Despite some inconsistency, they have shown glimpses of their potential, especially in their forechecking strategy, which has become one of their key tactical tools. On average, Samara average 32.5 shots on goal per game, showcasing their offensive drive, but they’ll need to improve their power play efficiency, which currently sits at just 18%.
Their defensive play has been a bit erratic at times, conceding 3.2 goals per game. However, the emergence of young netminder Sergey Ivanov, with a save percentage of 91.5%, has provided the team with a much-needed anchor. Ivanov’s ability to make critical saves, especially during the penalty kill, will be vital in this upcoming encounter.
Up front, much of the offensive responsibility rests on the shoulders of veteran forward Vasily Fedorov, who has been involved in 43% of their goals this season, either by scoring or assisting. He will be crucial in creating space and dictating the pace of play, especially during power play opportunities.
However, Samara will be without their second-line center, Aleksey Volkov, who is sidelined with a lower-body injury. His absence will impact the depth of the forward lines, and this could place more pressure on Fedorov and Evgeny Kirillov, who will need to step up in Volkov’s place.
Gornyak-UGMK: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Gornyak-UGMK enter this game in far better form, having won four of their last five games, including a dominant 5-1 win over HC Donbass in their most recent outing. Their form is built on a more disciplined approach, with solid defensive play combined with explosive counter-attacks. Averaging 29 shots per game, they are less aggressive in attack compared to Samara, but their ability to capitalize on power plays (with a success rate of 22%) and quick transitions makes them a formidable opponent.
Defensively, Gornyak-UGMK are one of the toughest teams to break down, allowing just 2.5 goals per game. Their defense-first mentality is backed by experienced goaltender Maxim Zaitsev, who boasts a save percentage of 92.1%, making him one of the best in the league. His calmness under pressure and ability to read the game will be crucial, especially if Samara’s forecheck is able to generate offensive opportunities.
Their offensive engine is Andrei Morozov, who has been in sensational form, registering 16 goals and 19 assists in 32 games. Morozov’s creativity and vision on the ice are key to Gornyak’s offensive flow, and his ability to deliver under pressure will be critical against Samara’s defensive unit. His chemistry with winger Roman Sidorov has created one of the deadliest duos in the league, and it’s likely to be their connection that will test Samara’s defense the most.
Gornyak-UGMK come into the game with a clean bill of health, and with all their top players fit, they will be confident heading into this encounter.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The last three encounters between these two teams have been fiercely contested, with both sides trading victories. Gornyak-UGMK have edged out Samara in their recent clashes, winning two of the last three. The last match, however, was a different story – a thrilling 4-4 tie that saw Samara claw back from a 4-2 deficit in the third period, demonstrating their resilience and fight. Historically, Samara have struggled to keep up with Gornyak-UGMK’s structured defensive play and lethal counter-attacks, but their recent improvement in forechecking could level the playing field.
One trend to note is that Samara have struggled against top-tier teams, particularly those with strong power plays and quick transitions. Gornyak-UGMK fit that bill, so Samara will need to be cautious about giving away unnecessary penalties and allow Gornyak’s top power play unit to exploit them.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The biggest battle will take place in the neutral zone. Samara’s forecheck against Gornyak-UGMK’s transition play will be the game’s deciding factor. If Samara can stifle Gornyak’s transition game early on and force them into mistakes, they could gain control. The key player here will be Fedorov, whose speed and playmaking ability could cause problems for Gornyak’s defense. Meanwhile, Gornyak will look to exploit the space left by Samara’s aggressive forecheck. Morozov’s ability to evade checks and create offense from the neutral zone will be a significant threat.
Another critical area will be special teams. Samara’s power play has struggled all season, while Gornyak-UGMK’s penalty kill is one of the best in the league. If Samara cannot convert on the power play, Gornyak’s ability to kill penalties will force them into long stretches of 5-on-5 hockey, where Gornyak’s depth and experience could prove to be decisive.
Match Scenario and Prediction
In this game, we expect to see a tactical battle with both teams playing to their strengths. Samara will come out with an aggressive forecheck and look to generate offensive chances through physical play, while Gornyak-UGMK will be more disciplined, waiting for their opportunities to break on the counter. The outcome will hinge on Samara’s ability to disrupt Gornyak’s transition game and whether they can capitalize on the power play opportunities they do get.
Given Gornyak-UGMK’s superior special teams and defensive structure, they will likely have the upper hand. However, Samara’s improved form and their resilience in recent games make them a dangerous opponent. This should be a close game, but Gornyak-UGMK’s overall team balance gives them a slight edge in this encounter.
Prediction: Gornyak-UGMK win in regulation, 3-2.
Final Thoughts
This clash between CSK VVS Samara and Gornyak-UGMK promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with plenty of tactical intrigue and individual brilliance on display. The battle in the neutral zone and on special teams will likely decide the outcome, with Gornyak’s defensive discipline and transition game making them favorites. Will Samara’s aggressive forecheck and physical play be enough to upset the balance, or will Gornyak-UGMK continue their dominance in the VHL? This game will provide the answer to that question.
