Bystrov: Semak Should Have Fielded All Brazilian Players Against Akron

Former midfielder of Saint Petersburg’s Zenit, **Vladimir Bystrov**, shared his thoughts on the sporting challenges faced by the blue-white-blue team. In the 18th round, Sergey Semak’s squad secured a 2-0 victory against Akron. As they headed into the winter break, Zenit found themselves in second place in the league standings.

«They need to play with the ball. It was easier for Semak to field all the Brazilians in this match against Akron. He sacrifices certain elements, knowing that Sobolev might not contribute significantly; yet, he still places him in the lineup. Is it because of his passport? Well, that makes sense,» Bystrov commented in the latest episode of the YouTube channel «Oh, Native Football!»

In late February, Zenit will face the Kaliningrad-based Baltika at their home ground in the 19th round of the RPL.