FC Fakel Voronezh, FC Khimki Return to Russian Premier League
FC Fakel Voronezh Wins First Promotion Through Play-Offs Since 1992
FC Fakel Voronezh, the 2nd-place finishers from the Russian National Football League, defeated FC Orenburg in penalty kicks 4-3 to win promotion to the Russian Premier League. Fakel ended the match with 10-men as Ilya Kamyshev was shown a red card late in the first half. The win guarantees Fakel a return to the top flight of Russian football for the first time since 2001.
FC Khimki Wins Direct Promotion After Two-Year Hiatus
FC Khimki clinched automatic promotion to the Russian Premier League after finishing atop the Russian National Football League standings, 4 points above 2nd-place Fakel Voronezh. Khimki previously played in the RPL during the 2020-21 season before being relegated to the second division. They will look to avoid a repeat of that campaign, which saw them finish dead last with only 13 points.
Both Clubs Aim to Avoid Relegation
Both Fakel Voronezh and Khimki will be aiming to avoid relegation in their return to the Russian Premier League. Fakel has not played in the top division since 2001, while Khimki last played 2 seasons ago. Both clubs will need to strengthen their squads to compete with the likes of Zenit Saint Petersburg, Spartak Moscow, and CSKA Moscow.
Fakel and Khimki Have Spent Majority of History Outside Russian Top Flight
Despite their recent success, both Fakel Voronezh and FC Khimki have spent the majority of their history outside of the Russian top flight. Fakel has only played 4 seasons in the Russian Premier League, while Khimki has only played 3. Both clubs will be hoping to establish themselves as top-flight clubs in the years to come.
Conclusion
The return of Fakel Voronezh and FC Khimki to the Russian Premier League is a significant achievement for both clubs. Both clubs have a rich history and passionate fanbases, and they will be looking to make an impact in the top flight. The 2023-24 Russian Premier League season is set to be an exciting one, with Fakel and Khimki sure to be involved in the battle for survival.
