The Daily Star Ireland
Russia welcome Bolivia to the VEB Arena in Moscow for a Friendly International on October 14, 2025, as both teams continue to fine-tune their squads ahead of upcoming qualifiers. Russia enter the clash in strong form after back-to-back 4–1 victories, while Bolivia arrive buoyed by a shock win over Brazil but remain inconsistent on the road.
Match Preview
Russia’s rebuild under Valery Karpin continues to gather momentum. The hosts followed up their 4–1 demolition of Qatar with another convincing victory by the same scoreline against Belarus, showcasing both attacking fluency and squad depth. With several young talents emerging, Karpin has successfully blended energy and experience — a key factor behind their recent scoring surge.
The absence of rising star Sergey Pinyaev, sidelined through a tendon injury, is a setback, but Russia remain well-stocked in forward areas. Fedor Chalov and Arsen Zakharyan have stepped up impressively, providing pace and creativity, while the midfield trio led by Daniil Fomin has offered better balance in transition. Defensively, Russia still show occasional lapses, yet the partnership between Igor Diveev and Georgiy Dzhikia has brought growing stability at the back.
Bolivia, on the other hand, continue to search for consistency under Gustavo Costas. Their stunning 1–0 win over Brazil earlier this year provided a much-needed confidence boost, but it was followed by heavy defeats against Colombia and Venezuela, exposing their defensive fragility. Away from the altitude of La Paz, Bolivia have struggled to match the same intensity — a major concern heading into Moscow, where Russia’s pressing game could prove overwhelming.
Still, Bolivia are not without weapons. Veteran forward Marcelo Moreno, their all-time top scorer, remains a danger from set-pieces and counters. Midfielders Leonel Justiniano and Henry Vaca bring tenacity and flair, while goalkeeper Carlos Lampe will be key if the visitors hope to contain Russia’s relentless attack.
Team Form & Recent Results
Russia (Last 5 Matches): W-W-D-L-W
Goals For: 13 | Goals Against: 6 | Clean Sheets: 2
Russia’s recent form highlights their offensive dominance, averaging nearly 2.5 goals per game. The team’s high-pressing style has produced results, particularly at home, where they’ve scored 10 times in their last three friendlies. However, maintaining focus in defense remains a recurring challenge.
Bolivia (Last 5 Matches): W-L-L-W-L
Goals For: 5 | Goals Against: 10 | Clean Sheets: 1
Bolivia’s form has fluctuated dramatically. Their ability to win key battles in midfield often dictates outcomes — when they manage to control tempo, they compete well. Yet, defensive disorganization away from home has cost them, conceding multiple goals in three of their last four away games.
Head-to-Head Record
This will be the first meeting between Russia and Bolivia at senior level, though both sides have previously faced several South American and European opponents in friendlies.
Fun Stat: Russia have lost only one of their last 12 home friendlies, while Bolivia have failed to win away from home since 2022.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
Russia (expected XI):
Safonov – Karavaev, Diveev, Dzhikia, Osipenko – Zakharyan, Fomin, Golovin – Miranchuk, Chalov, Mostovoy
Unavailable: Sergey Pinyaev (injury)
Karpin is expected to stick with his 4-3-3 setup, emphasizing aggressive pressing and overlapping full-backs. Golovin remains the creative heartbeat, while Chalov leads the line after netting three in his last four outings.
Bolivia (expected XI):
Lampe – Quinteros, Jusino, Sagredo – Bejarano, Justiniano, Vaca, Ribera – Villarroel – Moreno, Céspedes
Unavailable: Diego Medina (suspension)
Costas will deploy a compact 5-3-2 formation, prioritizing defensive solidity and counterattacks through Moreno and Vaca. Lampe’s experience in goal will be crucial against Russia’s attacking pressure.
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Russia: Expect high intensity from the opening whistle. Karpin’s side favor a fast-paced, possession-driven approach, often pressing high and transitioning quickly through midfield. Zakharyan’s ability to drift into half-spaces adds unpredictability, while Miranchuk and Golovin provide creativity between the lines. Defensively, Diveev commands the backline, but aerial duels remain an area to watch against Bolivia’s physical forwards.
Bolivia: The visitors will focus on compact defending and quick counters. Their best opportunities will likely come from set-pieces and long diagonals aimed at Moreno. However, maintaining shape under sustained pressure will be key. Justiniano’s role as a midfield shield could prove vital in limiting Russia’s central progressions.
Key Players:
- Russia: Fedor Chalov (finishing), Arsen Zakharyan (creativity), Aleksandr Golovin (midfield control)
- Bolivia: Marcelo Moreno (target man), Carlos Lampe (goalkeeping), Henry Vaca (transitions)
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
1X2 Odds: Russia 1.45 | Draw 4.00 | Bolivia 7.00
Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 1.80 | Under 2.00
Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Yes 2.10 | No 1.65
Betting Trends:
- Russia’s last 10 home friendlies have produced 3+ goals.
- Bolivia have conceded 10 goals in their last 4 away matches.
- Russia have scored 2+ goals in 7 of their last 9 games.
Quick Facts (Featured Snippet):
- Venue: VEB Arena, Moscow (Russia)
- Kickoff Time: Tuesday, October 14, 20:45 local / 18:45 CET
- Competition: International Friendly
Expert Tip: Russia to win & Over 2.5 goals is the best value pick, combining form and home advantage.
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Live Broadcast: Match TV (Russia), Tigo Sports (Bolivia), FIFA+ (worldwide)
Kickoff: 20:45 local (Moscow) / 18:45 CET
Prediction: Russia vs Bolivia, International Friendly
Russia’s superior quality, home advantage, and attacking momentum make them strong favorites in Moscow. Bolivia’s disciplined defense may hold early on, but Russia’s relentless pressure should eventually break through. Expect the hosts to control possession, create numerous chances, and close the game out comfortably.
Final Prediction: Russia 3–1 Bolivia
Best Bet: Russia to Win & Over 2.5 Goals
Alternative Value: Both Teams to Score (BTTS)
