OREANDA-NEWS  Zenit St. Petersburg defeated Akhmat Grozny in the match of the opening round of the group stage of the Russian Cup of the 2023/2024 season.

The match was held at the St. Petersburg stadium and ended with a score of 2:0. The score was opened by midfielder Gustavo Mantuan in the 39th minute. In the 62nd minute, defender Mario Fernandez made his debut for the blue-white-Blues. The fans booed him. In the 80th minute, the team's advantage was increased by the midfielder Claudio.

On July 17, Zenit announced the signing of a contract with Fernandez. The agreement is designed for one year with the possibility of extension for a season. From 2012 to 2022, Fernandez played for CSKA Moscow, after which he took a break in his career.

In the second round of the Russian Cup, Zenit will play with the Samara Wings of the Soviets on August 9. Akhmat will host Kaliningrad Baltika a day later.