Ak Bars Vs. Neftekhimik – January 13, 2026

KHL Prediction: Ak Bars vs. Neftekhimik – January 13, 2026

Ak Bars seeks to consolidate its position in the East. Main bet: Ak Bars victory.

Ak Bars

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Neftekhimik

Get ready for an exciting KHL clash! On January 13, Neftekhimik will visit Kazan to face Ak Bars. The “Cats” seek to consolidate second place in the East, while the “Wolves” will try to climb from sixth position. Can Ak Bars repeat their previous victory over Neftekhimik? Join us in this detailed analysis to find out!

Team Analysis

Ak Bars

Country: Russia

Current Form:

Ak Bars has regained second place in the Eastern Conference, although it has not yet managed to consolidate itself. Those led by Anvar Gatiyatullin have added 47 points in 45 games, narrowly beating Avangard. Their recent form is impressive, with just three defeats since the start of winter. In this year, they crushed Avtomobilist (5-0), fell to Avangard (1-2) and beat Barys (3-1).

Despite being favorites against Barys, the match was not easy for the “greens”. A double by Alexander Khmelevsky and Grigory Denisenko in the second period gave them the early lead. After a goal against with numerical inferiority, Ak Bars retreated, but Artem Galimov sealed the victory.

Kirill Semenov leads the offense with 33 points (11 goals and 22 assists), surpassing Alexander Barabanov (9 goals and 22 assists).

Casualties:

Currently, Mikhail Fisenko, Nikita Lyamkin and Albert Yarullin are injured.

Key Betting Trends:

• Ak Bars wins, on average, 55.3% of faceoffs.
• The team performs around 20 body loads per game.

Neftekhimik

Country: Russia

Current Form:

Neftekhimik have dropped to sixth place in the East, despite having been in fifth place for much of the season. The “Wolves” have 47 points after 45 games and are looking to stay in the playoff zone. The pressure is high, with Salavat Yulaev hot on their heels. Their start to the year has been complicated, with defeats against Sochi (1-2) and Ufa (1-2). However, they managed to recover with two consecutive victories against Admiral (3-2 on penalties and 4-2).

The second match against Admiral did not start well, and by the second break, Neftekhimik trailed by two goals. However, in the third period, the team showed a renewed attitude. Damir Zhafyarov quickly equalized the score with two goals, and Mikhail Fedotov put his team ahead. Matvey Nadvorny sealed the match with a goal into an empty net.

Andrey Belozerov continues to be the offensive leader of the “Wolves”, with 38 points (21 goals and 17 assists).

Casualties:

All key players of the team are available for the match in Kazan.

Key Betting Trends:

• Neftekhimik averages 30 shots on goal per game.
• The team performs 21 body loads per game.

Key Statistics

Latest Matches

Direct Confrontations

Team Form (Last 5 Matches)

Key Statistics (Last 5 Matches)

Additional Analysis:

Ak Bars (Rating: Form 8/10, Attack 7/10, Defense 9/10, Motivation 8/10): Their solid defense and opportunistic attack make them a difficult opponent.

Neftekhimik (Rating: Form 6/10, Attack 7/10, Defense 6/10, Motivation 7/10): His dependence on Belozerov in the attack could be a limiting factor.

Forecast and Betting

Ak Bars is in a great moment and continues to play very well at home. Those from Kazan improve with each game and barely concede goals with the support of their fans. Neftekhimik, meanwhile, had a poor performance away from home in January and barely won two games against Admiral. We believe that luck will not be on the visitors' side this time. We are betting on a victory for the home team in regulation time.

Main Bet

Ak Bars victory with fee of 1.60.

Safe Bet

Total goals Under 5.5 with fee of 1.70.

• Ak Bars is very solid in defense at home, allowing few goals.
• Neftekhimik will probably play defensively, looking for a close match.

Risky Bet (High Odds)

Ak Bars wins with a -1.5 handicap with fee of 2.50.

• Ak Bars have won several recent matches by two or more goals.
• If Ak Bars dominates as expected, he could cover this handicap.

Don't miss the action!

Are you ready to bet? May luck be on your side!

Key Match Factors

• Performance of the Neftekhimik goalkeeper: If the Neftekhimik goalkeeper has a good game, he could frustrate the Ak Bars attack.
• Tactical discipline: The team that commits fewer penalties will have a big advantage.
• Efficiency in the power play: A good conversion rate on the power play could make the difference.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ):

1. How is this forecast prepared (Methodology)?
   This forecast is based on a comprehensive analysis of statistical data. We analyze the recent performance of both teams, including results, goals scored and conceded, shots on goal, puck possession, and quality of expected goals (xG). Factors such as injuries, sanctions, historical head-to-heads, and current trends are also considered. Flashscore/Sofascore/Whoscored data.
2. Why is an Ak Bars victory predicted?
   Ak Bars shows solid form at home, with a consistent defense and an opportunistic attack. Neftekhimik has had recent difficulties on the road and relies heavily on one player in its offense. The combination of these factors tips the balance in favor of Ak Bars.
3. What would happen if Neftekhimik surprises and wins?
   In hockey, as in any sport, there are unexpected variables. An outstanding performance by the Neftekhimik goalkeeper, an unusual ineffectiveness of the Ak Bars attack, or controversial refereeing decisions could alter the result. It is important to remember that although this forecast is based on detailed analysis, it does not guarantee the final result. Responsible betting is essential.
4. What does handicap mean in betting?
   The handicap is a virtual advantage or disadvantage that is applied to a team before the match begins. In this case, a handicap of -1.5 for Ak Bars means that for the bet to be a winner, Ak Bars must win by at least two goals difference.
5. How do injuries influence this game?
   The absences due to injury of important players such as Mikhail Fisenko, Nikita Lyamkin and Albert Yarullin in Ak Bars do have an impact, especially on defense. However, the team has proven to have depth and the ability to adapt to absences.
6. Is it safe to bet on total goals under 5.5?
   While no bet is 100% sure, this is considered a safer bet due to Ak Bars' defensive solidity at home and Neftekhimik's likely strategy of playing defensively. However, there is always the risk of a match with a very fast pace of play and many goals.
7. What is the importance of direct confrontations?
   Head-to-head matches can provide valuable information on how matches between these two teams develop. In this case, Ak Bars has dominated most of the recent confrontations, which reinforces the prediction of their victory.
8. What should I take into account when betting on this match?
   Consider your budget, your risk tolerance, and your knowledge of ice hockey. Don't bet more than you can afford to lose and always bet responsibly.
9. Where can I find more information about team statistics?
   You can find detailed statistics on websites such as Flashscore, Sofascore and Whoscored.
10. Do you offer more forecasts like this?
    Yeah! Join our Telegram channel for daily forecasts: https://t.me/casino_guru.

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