Nizhny Novgorod's playoff dreams shattered by final-day draw
Pari Nizhny Novgorod missed out on the playoffs after a final-day draw. The team’s 2–2 result against Rubin Kazan was not enough to secure promotion. Last season, they had only stayed in the league due to FC Khimki’s licensing troubles. The match began with high stakes for Nizhny. A win would have sent them into the promotion playoffs. Instead, they settled for a 2–2 draw, with Grulyov scoring twice for the home side.
Their main rival, Dynamo Makhachkala, also failed to capitalise. A draw against Spartak left both teams short of the points needed. Without a victory, neither side could overtake the final playoff position.
This season’s disappointment follows last year’s narrow escape. Nizhny had avoided relegation only because FC Khimki withdrew due to licensing issues. Now, they remain in the second tier for another year. Nizhny’s failure to win means they stay in the second division. Dynamo Makhachkala also fell short, leaving the playoff spots unchanged. The team will need a stronger campaign next season to challenge for promotion.
