Dmitry Parfenov: In Our Time, Even the Dead Came Alive for the Spartak vs. CSKA Match

Former footballer of Moscow’s Spartak, **[Dmitry Parfenov](https://www.rbc.ru/rbcfreenews/652456559a7947a3f676c69e)**, shared his thoughts ahead of the key match in Round 26 of the Russian Premier League, where Spartak will face CSKA. The game is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 26, at the home ground of Spartak, beginning at 19:30 Moscow time.

«The Spartak vs. CSKA match is the top derby in Russia. I know well that regardless of where the teams are positioned in the standings, these encounters are always special. However, it’s worth pondering how much the current generation of players feels the significance of this derby. In our day, even those who had passed would come to life for such matches. I hope to see good, high-quality football. There will certainly be a lot of emotions involved, but I would prefer less dirty play.

We need to assess Maximenkо’s condition. If Alexander is fit, he will play against CSKA. The Spartak coaching staff has faith in him. This match could be particularly significant for Pomazun; however, during derbies, nobody focuses on the details. The very nature of this contest implies high intensity and commitment. The teams are positioned closely in the league table and competing for a top-three finish. Winning is crucial for Spartak from a strategic standpoint,» Parfenov stated in an interview with Championship correspondent Vladislav Kruglov.