Match Preview: «Astana» vs. CSKA

«Astana» starts 2025 with a tough challenge, taking on CSKA Moscow, the top team in the VTB United League. Here’s what to expect in this exciting match.

Since their last meeting with «Astana» on November 16, CSKA has been on a strong run, securing six wins and suffering just two losses. Their only defeats came against «Zenit» (82:78) in December and «Lokomotiv-Kuban» (69:65). Otherwise, CSKA has been dominant, posting big victories over teams like «Avtodor» (112:65), «Samara» (93:63, 97:77), MBA-MAI (84:67), «Enisey» (100:78), and «Parma» (110:91).

Team Leaders and Depth

CSKA’s roster is stacked with talent, and head coach Andreas Pistiolis has plenty of options to rely on. Alex Avramovic leads the team in scoring (14.1 PPG), with Melo Trimble (13.5 PPG) and Tonye Jekiri (10.5 PPG) contributing consistently. Ivan Ukhov shone in their win against «Avtodor,» scoring 20 points, hitting 6/7 from three-point range, and recording a 24 efficiency rating, earning a spot in the league’s Team of the Week for December 23–26.

Even when their stars aren’t on the court CSKA’s bench is ready to deliver. In their last matchup with «Astana,» Ruslan Abdulbasirov (15 points), Anton Astapkovich (16 points), and Vladimir Karpenko (10 points, 6 assists) all made significant contributions.

Head-to-Head History

«Astana» has faced CSKA 30 times in the VTB United League, with the Moscow side winning every game. The closest contest came on December 15, 2019, when «Astana» narrowly lost 104:91.


Acting Head Coach Gleb Plotnikov:

“We have our objectives for this game, and with four matches in eight days, it’s a demanding schedule. We’ll do everything we can to put on a strong performance against CSKA.”

Forward Vladislav Isaenko:

“This Sunday, we’re up against CSKA—a strong and experienced team. We’ve been training hard, studying their game, and preparing as a team. After the holidays, we’re ready and determined to show what we can do. We’re here to fight and give our best performance.”

Game Details

Match: «Astana» vs. CSKA
Date & Time: January 5, 15:00 (local time)
Venue: Velodrome «Saryarka,» Astana
Broadcast: Live on the club website


Let’s pack the stands and cheer the team on as they take on one of the league’s toughest challenges!