The game was on the brink of being postponed after a week of non stop rain in Dortmund. Decision whether game is on was to be made this morning by the referees (Belgian crew) and match inspector.
Lokomotiv's captain and influential midfielder Loskov is missing the game through 2 yellow cards. Marat Izmaylov will be deputising. Weekend's Russian SuperCup clash with archrivals CSKA had Buznikin and Julius Caeser pick up injuries - considering Parks and Obiora weren't fully fit only a few days ago this could mean a striker crisis in the Moscow side. The later report claims both Parks and Caeser were practicing and most likely will be fit for the tonight's game. Goalkeeper Ovchinnikov, a figure as symbolic to Loko as Totti is to Roma, said in the interview that his team "will give 100% in Dortmund". Lokomotiv must win tonight or they are out of contention, while a draw would suit neither club.
Summary: Loko swept the domestic season but their european season probably consists of only two more games. With a couple players missing (Loskov being the most important one), the Moscow side will find winning in Dortmund a mountain to climb - but they should be able to put up a fight, and subpar pitch rarely favors high scoring football. A draw, or narrow Dortmund win is most likely.
Bets: small stake on under 2.5 goals @ 2.1
medium stake on Loko (+1.5) @ 1.95
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