FK Kosmos Dolgoprudny 1–3 Sheksna Cherepovets
Russian Third League B – 11 May 2026

Sheksna Cherepovets earned a commanding away victory at the Arena Kosmos on Monday evening, defeating FK Kosmos Dolgoprudny 3–1 in a Russian Third League B encounter that showcased the visitors’ clinical finishing and defensive resilience.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Sheksna showed intent. The away side pressed high and forced an early breakthrough in the 12th minute when midfielder Artem Rybakov latched onto a loose ball inside the box and slotted past home goalkeeper Ivan Zaitsev. Kosmos responded with dangerous spells of possession, but Sheksna doubled their lead just before the half-hour mark. A swift counter‑attack ended with winger Dmitri Volkov cutting inside and curling a shot into the far corner.

Kosmos pulled one back three minutes after the interval. A corner kick was cleared only as far as defender Pavel Sokolov, whose half‑volley from 20 metres took a deflection and wrong‑footed the Sheksna keeper. The home crowd sensed a comeback, but Sheksna restored their two‑goal cushion in the 67th minute. Striker Aleksandr Morozov rose highest to meet a cross from the right, powering a header past Zaitsev.

Key Moments

• 12' – Rybakov opens the scoring for Sheksna after a scramble in the box.
• 28' – Volkov’s fine individual effort makes it 2–0.
• 48' – Sokolov’s deflected strike gives Kosmos hope.
• 67' – Morozov’s header seals the points for the visitors.

Tactical Story

Sheksna set up in a compact 4‑4‑2, prioritising quick transitions and exploiting space behind Kosmos’ full‑backs. The visitors’ midfield trio of Rybakov, Ivan Kiselev and Sergei Lisov controlled the central areas, limiting Kosmos’ creative players. Kosmos, playing a more adventurous 4‑3‑3, often left gaps when possession was lost, and Sheksna capitalised ruthlessly. Kosmos’ manager attempted to switch to a back three after the goal, but Sheksna’s discipline in holding their shape ensured they rarely looked troubled.

Standout Players

• Dmitri Volkov (Sheksna) – A constant menace on the left wing; his goal and assist were decisive.
• Artem Rybakov (Sheksna) – Energetic in midfield, scored the opener and covered every blade of grass.
• Pavel Sokolov (Kosmos) – His goal and leadership from the back gave Kosmos a lifeline, but defensive lapses cost his side.

Table Impact

The victory lifts Sheksna Cherepovets into third place in the Russian Third League B standings as they chase promotion. For FK Kosmos Dolgoprudny, the defeat leaves them in mid‑table, now six points off the playoff spots with eight matches remaining. The home side will need to address defensive concentration if they are to mount a late push.