Dinamo Makhachkala claimed a crucial 1–0 victory over CSKA Moscow in the first leg of the Russian Cup quarter-final.
The Dagestan side, 12th in the league, faced a team sitting second in the Russian Premier League table.
Few expected Makhachkala to wrestle control of this tie, but they executed a disciplined game plan.
Algerian defender Imad Azzi started in the heart of Makhachkala’s defence.
He marshalled the backline early, handled pressure, and blocked space with sharp reactions.
His presence gave structure to a defence that CSKA tried hard to destabilise.
Makhachkala struck the decisive moment before the break.
A penalty awarded late in the first half changed the entire momentum.
The home side converted with conviction and carried belief into the interval.
The second period brought more Algerian influence.
Mohamed Azzi entered the pitch right after the restart, operating as a right wing-back.
He injected pace, surged forward with intent, and asked questions of CSKA’s left flank.
His overlapping runs created width and gave Makhachkala an outlet under pressure.
At the hour mark, Houssem Mrezigue joined the action.
His role focused on stability, defensive control, and keeping CSKA from building rhythm.
He tracked runners, clogged passing lanes, and brought composure in critical moments.
CSKA pushed numbers forward, hunted an equaliser, and turned possession into pressure.
Makhachkala responded by staying compact, defending space, and limiting high-quality chances.
They resisted, stayed organised, and handled every wave without panic.
The final whistle confirmed a result that reshaped expectations around this tie.
The 1–0 lead gives Makhachkala an advantage but nothing close to comfort.
They now prepare for the return leg in Moscow in two days, where CSKA aim to strike back.
For Makhachkala, this win speaks louder than the scoreline.
It signals a team growing in belief, courage, and collective identity.
It also highlights the rising role of their Algerian contingent on a big stage.
Imad Azzi delivered leadership from the first whistle.
Mohamed Azzi offered energy and threat in transition.
Mrezigue brought balance at a moment when chaos could have tipped the game.
Makhachkala now carries a narrow lead, earned with structure, fight, and clarity.
CSKA returns home with a deficit and urgency, knowing the tie remains open.
The second leg promises intensity, risk, and a battle for control.
Makhachkala may operate outside the league’s elite, but on this night, they played like equals.
Next stop, Moscow.
