Interview of the Zenit head coach for the Match Premier channel

The head coach of the Zenit team, Sergey Semak, gave an interview for the Premier Match channel before the meeting with Tambov.

— Sergey Bogdanovich, if we talk about the starting line-up for today's game, a round-robin appears from the first minutes. Why is this choice made? Why is Zhirkov in stock?

Because the game was only two days ago. Naturally, two days are not enough for Yuri to fully recover. Moreover, we have an alternative option with a Round-robin, which has earned - both as a substitute and in the training process - a place in the starting lineup. Just look at his actions.

"Tambov", despite the fact that it does not act in the best way at the start of the season in terms of results, it misses quite a bit. Do you have an understanding of why this dense defense should be hacked?

The defense is well organized, experienced players who know how to play in this scheme, which involves defending both quantity and quality. Therefore, it is difficult for any team to open such an organized defense. As for our matches, last season there were quite difficult matches both at home and away - 2:1 both there and there. Therefore, we are waiting for a hard game.

Today is Artem Dzyuba's birthday. Did they congratulate him in the morning in the team or did they leave everything for after the game?

— Traditionally congratulated the team at the morning warm-up. I think the most important congratulations will be this game - so that both he and the team congratulate him on his birthday.

More news

27 February

Russia vs. Nicaragua Football Match at Ozon Arena: Don't Miss the Spectacular!

Get ready for a thrilling football match between Russia and Nicaragua at Ozon Arena in Krasnodar. Experience the festive atmosphere and support your team in one of the country's most modern arenas!

27 February

An Epic Football Clash at Gazprom Arena: Russia vs. Mali

Join thousands of fans at Gazprom Arena in St. Petersburg! The Russian and Mali national football teams are ready to give you an unforgettable match. Experience the atmosphere of great sport and become part of this exciting event!

17 February

An epic clash at the Ozon Arena: Russia vs. Mali in a thrilling football match

Don't miss the unique Russia vs. Mali match at Ozon Arena! Experience the festive atmosphere of football and support your team at one of Russia's finest stadiums. Tickets are now available!

9 February

The Russian Cup Final at Luzhniki Stadium: The epicenter of sporting passion

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a football festival at the Russian Cup final at the legendary Luzhniki Stadium. Historic matches, intense passion, and unforgettable emotions await you at this grand event.

31 January

An Epic Showdown: Sochi vs. Spartak at Fisht Stadium

Don't miss the exciting match between FC Sochi and Spartak Moscow at the legendary Fisht Stadium. Find out who will take the lead in the RPL in this historic showdown!

4 December 2025

An epic football clash at VTB Arena: Dynamo Moscow vs. Krylia Sovetov

Get ready for a thrilling football match at VTB Arena in Moscow! Dynamo Moscow will face Krylia Sovetov Samara. Don't miss your chance to be part of this sporting celebration and support your team.

26 November 2025

Moscow football derby: Spartak vs. Lokomotiv at Lukoil Arena

Don't miss the exciting match between Moscow giants Spartak and Lokomotiv! This weekend, Lukoil Arena will host the exciting clash of the season. Find out how you can be part of this football celebration!

20 November 2025

Football Battle at RZD Arena: Lokomotiv vs. Krasnodar in Round 16 of the Russian Premier League

Don't miss this exciting clash at RZD Arena in Moscow! Lokomotiv and Krasnodar will face off in Round 16 of the Russian Premier League. Find out who will triumph on the Muscovites' home field. Support your team live!

18 November 2025

A thrilling match between CSKA and Dynamo Makhachkala at VEB Arena: a battle of ambitions and history in the Russian Premier League

Don't miss the football showdown at VEB Arena! CSKA and Dynamo Makhachkala will face off in the Russian Premier League. The history and ambitions of both teams promise a spectacular match. Support your team and enjoy the atmosphere of great football!

17 November 2025

Akron vs. Sochi: An Epic Battle at Solidarity Arena in Tolyatti

Experience exciting football at Solidarity Arena in Tolyatti! The Round 16 RPL match between Akron and Sochi promises to be unforgettable. Learn more about the teams and get ready for a true sporting celebration!