FC Leningradets produced a dramatic late turnaround to beat SKA Khabarovsk 3-2 on 5 September 2026 in a Russian First League thriller that began at 20:00 local time. The hosts had to recover from an early setback before seizing control, then dug deep after conceding again in a frantic second half. The result provides a significant three points for Leningradets, while SKA Khabarovsk will wonder how a game they led slipped away.

Match story

Leningradets started with high intensity and looked to make their territorial advantage count. However, SKA Khabarovsk showed why they are a difficult away side to shake off, scoring against the run of play in the 12th minute. A straightforward route-one move saw the visitors’ striker hold up the ball and finish smartly to put SKA 1-0 ahead.

The setback sharpened Leningradets’ attacking focus. The hosts levelled midway through the first half when a low cross from the right was turned home from close range. Buoyed by that goal, Leningradets continued to press and took the lead just before the interval with a powerful header from a corner. At 2-1, Leningradets had fully turned the match in their favour.

Second-half drama

Whatever the SKA Khabarovsk coach said at halftime had an immediate impact. Within minutes of the restart, the visitors restored parity with a well-struck volley from inside the box, setting up a tense final half-hour. Both teams pushed for a winner, and it was Leningradets who found the decisive moment in the 78th minute. A substitute curled a precise effort into the far corner to make it 3-2, sending the home crowd into celebration.

SKA Khabarovsk threw men forward in stoppage time and came close with a header that flashed wide, but Leningradets held on to claim a memorable victory.

Key factors in the win

• Resilience: Leningradets recovered twice and showed excellent character.
• Set-piece threat: corner delivery caused constant problems for the SKA defence.
• Substitute impact: the late winner came from a fresh attacking option introduced by the home bench.
• SKA Khabarovsk’s spirit: despite defeat, the visitors twice battled back and made it a close contest.

Season context

In the competitive Russian First League, every point matters. The win gives FC Leningradets momentum and keeps them in touch with the promotion picture, while SKA Khabarovsk will look to address their defensive concentration after seeing good work undone. With this result, Leningradets also strengthened their home record, an important foundation for the rest of the campaign.