The encounter of the Fonbet Russian Cup group stage first round that was held in Rostov-on-Don ended in 2:0 win for the hosts.
Many key players of the White-Blues got some rest in this match and Dynamo's coaching staff fielded the experimental line-up. Denis Osokin made his debut for the first team. Georgy Sulakvelidze and Yaroslav Gladyshev saw their names in the starting team list. Arsen Zakharyan captained Dynamo for the first time in his career.
The Rostov side started well as hosts. They controlled the ball and followed their possession-based style. The teams exchanged shots in the first half – Khoren Bayramyan and Daniil Lesovoy tested the goalkeepers' vigilance.
In the 23rd minute, the Yellow-Blues opened the score. Bayramyan found the contact with Denis Osokin and fell inside the penalty box. Vladimir Moskalyov watched the replay and gave the hosts a penalty. Yegor Golenkov converted it without difficulties.
By the half-time whistle Valery Karpin's men doubled their lead. Golenkov drilled the ball with his header after the corner kick. Roberto Fernandez tried to intercept but stayed behind the tall forward.
During the break Slavisa Jokanovic replaced Osokin for Saba Sazonov. Dynamo footballers changed their play and took the initiative. However, the hosts didn't forget to run into counterattacks and their runs were really dangerous. Igor Leshchuk came into play by neutralizing Poloz' pure threat from inside the penalty area.
Things got better for Dynamo with the appearance of Daniil Fomin, Luka Gagnidze and Konstantin Tyukavin. The White-Blues created three good goal scoring chances and were close to cut the lead. The linesman flagged for offside when Tyukavin rushed one-on-one with Nikita Medvedev. Gladyshev also could put his name on the scoresheet but didn't send the ball past the goalkeeper.
The visitors were forced to break through the massive defensive line. However, this evening luck was on the other side. Dynamo's unbeaten run of games in this season ended on the eighth fixture.
In the next Cup match the White-Blues will play against Akhmat at home on September 13. This Saturday our team will face Ural at VTB Arena.