Neftyanik Almetyevsk vs Izhstal Izhevsk

Neftyanik Almetyevsk hosts Izhstal Izhevsk in a VHL matchup on Thursday, with the home side entering as clear favorites. The average moneyline odds from 47 bookmakers place Neftyanik at 1.31, reflecting their strong form and home-ice advantage. Izhstal, listed at 3.15, faces a challenging task as the visiting underdog.

Almetyevsk has consistently demonstrated why they are so heavily backed, relying on disciplined defensive structure and timely scoring. Izhevsk will need to capitalize on any defensive lapses and produce a sharp, opportunistic performance to overcome the odds. This contest presents a classic clash between a dominant home squad and a road team looking to defy expectations.