Arsenal Tula vs Zenit tips and predictions

Huge challenge for Arsenal Tula

Readers shouldn't be surprised if the floodgates open.

You might believe the favourites are a lock but Zenit are too short to for this preview.

The hosts start the match having racked up 2 wins from their last 4 games. Zenit have won this before a ball has been kicked if you believe the experts. However it's worth looking a little closer at how these sides measure up.

Arsenal Tula need to be at their absolute best and even then they face a huge challenge. If the hosts are really up for it, they'll have gained a lot confidence from their previous outings. They have looked powerful. Their recent 5 matches have seen them hitting the net an average of 2.2 times per game while consolidating with their defensive stats. They have only conceded an average of 1.0 goals over their last 3 games.

Zenit have been tested in defence when not on their own turf. They've conceded at least once in all of their last 7 away matches. Only those wearing rose-tinted glasses will expect the upset, but it might happen.

The last time these two sides met was in February. Arsenal Tula won with a 2-1 scoreline.

The visitors are obviously legitimate favourites but they are just too short to back. It will ultimately come down to which side imposes their will on the other. There could be some evidence that the distance between the two sides isn't as significant as you think. Sometimes it just takes half a chance. Arsenal Tula are the value play.

Despite the irrefutable favouritism for Zenit it will be great to see Arsenal Tula catch them off-guard. It might not be the obvious suggestion but the Yes BTTS bet is a reluctant side bet for this particular game.