Torpedo N. Novgorod - Vityaz Podolsk predictions and free betting tips [20/09/2023]

Engaging in the regular KHL championship of the 2023/2024 season. One would like to say that this is a game of the Western Conference's first-place against the last, yet recent failure has toppled Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod from the lead. Meanwhile, Vityaz Balashikha still holds its position at the bottom. 

Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod

Is a story retold twice more interesting? Such is the belief at Torpedo. The team bid farewell to several leaders in the off-season, also losing Igor Larionov's assistant, Andrey Kozyrev. It appeared that Torpedo would fall, but contrary to that, they commenced the season exceptionally well. A five-match winning streak saw them as the only team without a loss, allowing them to secure the first spot in the Western Conference. However, a trip to the East resulted in a 3:4 defeat by Ak Bars before a non-typical loss to Salavat Yulaev during overtime. These games saw Torpedo trying to match their opponents' style but failed in both attempts. Despite gaining one point, they now return home to reclaim their top spot. 

Vityaz Balashikha

What's there to say about Vityaz? The main question regarding Vityaz is when will the management decide to replace the head coach, Alexander Zavyalov. After eight matches, Vityaz has scored only three points: two from a shootout victory over Admiral and one from their latest match with Ak Bars. It seems like a terrible season start for the team from the Moscow region. The previous season's first-ever KHL playoffs win seemed like a chance to move forward and improve. However, changing the coach and the lineup has resulted in steeper failure. Only Neftekhimik from the East parallels Vityaz's meagre three-point start. Once again, it seems Vityaz is awaiting a resignation. Their gameplay exhibits no noticeable improvements, save for the rare exemplary goalkeeping. 

Head-to-Head

In the 43 matches they've contested, Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod has emerged victorious 27 times, while Vityaz Balashikha has won only 16 times. 

Predictions

Unsurprisingly, Torpedo is the favourite with odds of 1.64 win against Vityaz's 4.70. Whilst a straight win bet for Torpedo seems logical, the small multiplier appears less attractive. 

Total Over/Under

Therefore, I propose selecting an ITO1 (3.5) at odds of 2.06. Torpedo is known for their high scoring games, and after two losses, they'll aim to deliver maximum performance, especially at home. The opponent seems to provide an opportunity to play an offensive game and score many goals. The odds are quite tempting.