Zenit St. Petersburg defender Nuraly Alip admitted that the team’s 3-2 victory over FC Krasnodar in the 10th round of the Russian Premier League delivered the open, attacking spectacle that supporters crave.
How Alip Entered the Starting Lineup
Alip’s path to the starting XI opened up due to squad rotation and international duty absences. The defender revealed that he learned of his inclusion while traveling back from national team commitments, when staff instructed him to head straight to the club base. With Igor Diveev sidelined by an injury sustained with his national team and defensive depth tested following previous fixtures, Alip stepped into the lineup alongside defensive partner Nino.
“I don’t usually miss my chances and am always ready to play,” Alip told Match TV.
Momentum Shifts and Late-Game Fatigue
Zenit controlled the match through the opening hour, playing what Alip described as super football before a sudden dip in concentration allowed Krasnodar back into the contest. Within a five-to-seven-minute window, the hosts struck twice to erase the deficit and level the score, creating a frantic finish.
“We played super until the 60th minute,” Alip said. “Then we relaxed a bit, and Krasnodar scored two quick goals in five to seven minutes. After that, it was tough. Thank God the final score on the scoreboard is in our favor.”
Alip recalled checking the stadium clock in the 81st minute and exchanging glances with center-back partner Nino as both players struggled for air.
“We look at each other and understand that we are already breathing with one pair of gills for two and helping ourselves with our hands at the same time,” Alip said with a smile. “It was hard, but the most important thing is that we won. By the way, Jonquel [Jhon] could have scored a fourth in the end—it’s a pity he hurried a bit.”
The defender noted that pre-match discussions centered on Córdoba’s tendency to provoke opponents, requiring a measured, level-headed response that Alip believes he maintained.
Match Broadcast and League Context
Live television broadcasts of league fixtures are carried by Match TV and Match Premier, with digital streams available on matchtv.ru and sportbox.ru.
“I think the fans liked the football, the open game,” Alip said. “Especially ours, who made it to this game despite everything.”
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