CSKA Moscou

Founded in 1911 as the sports society of the Russian Army, PFC CSKA Moscow is one of Russia's most storied and successful football clubs. Originally known as the "Circle of Sports Amateurs" (OLLS), the club's identity has been intrinsically linked to the military throughout its history, reflected in its various official names, including the Central Sports Club of the Army. This connection has forged a reputation for discipline, resilience, and a never-surrender attitude on the pitch. The club's home is the modern VEB Arena, a 30,000-seat stadium in Moscow's Khodynka Field, which opened in 2016. This replaced their long-time shared use of the colossal Luzhniki Stadium. CSKA's trophy cabinet is among the most impressive in Russian football, boasting numerous Soviet and Russian league titles and a record number of Russian Cup victories. Their crowning European achievement came in 2005, when they became the first Russian club to win a major UEFA trophy, defeating Sporting CP in the UEFA Cup final in Lisbon. They later added the UEFA Super Cup in 2007. The club has been graced by legendary figures. Goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev, a one-club man and captain for over two decades, is an icon. Other greats include the dynamic winger Yuri Zhirkov, prolific striker Vágner Love, and the influential midfielder Alan Dzagoev. Traditionally, CSKA's playing style has emphasized a strong defensive organization and rapid counter-attacks, a pragmatic approach often associated with its military roots. CSKA's fan base, known as the "Bratya" (Brothers), is passionate and fiercely loyal. The club's most intense rivalry is with Spartak Moscow, a feud dubbed the "Russian El Clásico," which divides the capital and is one of the most heated derbies in Eastern European football. Another significant rivalry exists with Lokomotiv Moscow. Currently, CSKA remains a consistent force in the Russian Premier League, regularly competing for European qualification spots, though they face financial challenges compared to state-backed rivals. An interesting fact is their nickname, the "Horses," which originated from a historical mispronunciation of their acronym. The club's identity is one of resilience, having overcome numerous crises, and its 2005 UEFA Cup triumph remains a defining moment in Russian football history.