Legion Makhachkala vs Alania Vladikavkaz Prediction & Betting Tips (20 August)

Legion Makhachkala enters the Russian Cup clash against Alania Vladikavkaz with a mixed bag of recent performances. The Dagestan-based side has struggled for consistency in the FNL 2 Division B, currently sitting mid-table with six wins from eighteen matches. Their recent 1–0 victory over Spartak Nalchik offered a glimpse of resilience, but losses to Sevastopol and Druzhba Maikop exposed defensive frailties. The squad, led by a yet-to-be-confirmed head coach, leans heavily on forwards like Shamil Saaduev and Magomed Ibragimov, while midfielders Nikita Krasnov and Yuriy Udunyan provide the creative spark. With home advantage and a point to prove, Legion will be banking on a spirited display.

Alania Vladikavkaz, meanwhile, arrives with a more stable trajectory. Competing in the FNL 2 Division A Gold, they’ve shown flashes of dominance, notably in their 2–0 win over Volgar-Astrakhan and a gritty 2–1 away victory against Kirov. Under the guidance of coach Spartak Gogniev, Alania boasts a youthful squad with standout performers like midfielder Taras Gagloev and winger Anzor Amiraliev. Their defensive line, anchored by veterans Alan Bagaev and Soslan Kachmazov, has been solid, though recent losses to Leningradets and Neftekhimik suggest vulnerability under pressure. The team’s blend of experience and emerging talent makes them a formidable opponent.

The tactical battle promises intrigue. Legion’s compact midfield and counter-attacking style could exploit Alania’s occasional lapses in transition. Conversely, Alania’s high pressing and fluid wing play may stretch Legion’s backline, especially if the hosts fail to close down space early. Set pieces could be decisive, with both sides showing proficiency in dead-ball situations. The match is likely to be cagey early on, with momentum swinging in the second half as fatigue and substitutions come into play.

Given the current form and squad dynamics, a 2–1 scoreline in favor of Legion Makhachkala feels plausible. The home side’s hunger to make a statement in the Cup, coupled with Alania’s uneven away form, sets the stage for a narrow but hard-fought victory. Expect Saaduev to find the net, possibly alongside a late winner from a midfield surge. Alania will likely respond through Amiraliev or Gagloev, but Legion’s resilience and crowd support could tip the balance in their favor.