Nikitin on Kazan Victory: Were Not in a Position to Share Secrets

CSKA head coach Igor Nikitin commented on the victory over Ak Bars (4:1) and identified a successful penalty kill as the pivotal moment of the game.

«The turning point was our performance while shorthanded. We managed to score, which boosted our confidence. We realized that we can compete in any situation. A strong penalty kill starts with the goalie; this is a universal truth that applies to all teams.

From the second period onward, we played the right way, demonstrating good hockey. We aren’t in a position to reveal any secrets. This was a team victory. It’s about team play, where support from teammates allows us to deal with players like Mitchell Miller. Teamwork is essential,» said Nikitin, as reported by Championship correspondent Rustam Imamov.