CSKA Moscow claimed a dramatic 3-2 victory over Lokomotiv Moscow in a pulsating derby at the VEB Arena, with the Army Men fighting back from an early deficit to secure all three points in the Russian Premier League's 5th round, a result that moves them into the top four. Lokomotiv took the lead in the 22nd minute through Alexander Silyanov, who finished clinically from Zelimkhan Bakaev's left-wing delivery, beating the CSKA goalkeeper with a precise strike into the far corner. However, CSKA responded swiftly when Luciano Gondou equalised in the 29th minute with a powerful strike from outside the box after Matvey Kislyak's knockdown, his third goal of the season and a strike that demonstrated his growing influence in the attacking third. The second half saw CSKA take control, with Kirill Danilov heading home from a corner in the 50th minute to put the hosts ahead for the first time, and Mateus Alves extended the lead in the 68th minute from Milan Gajic's assist, showing composure to beat the goalkeeper at the near post. Lokomotiv refused to roll over, with Sergey Pinyaev pulling one back in the 74th minute from Vadim Rakov's pass to set up a tense finale that had the fans on the edge of their seats. The match was a physical affair with yellow cards shown to Zherzino Nyamsi (45+2'), Kirill Danilov (74'), and Luciano Gondou (81') for robust challenges in midfield. CSKA registered 14 shots to Lokomotiv's 9, enjoyed 52% possession, and created 5 clear chances compared to the visitors' 3. After the match, CSKA manager Marko Nikolic praised his team's character and insisted they deserved the win, despite defensive errors that led to the conceded goals. The full match highlights and all goals are available to watch.

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