Metallurg Magnitogorsk and Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk played pre-season matches with different results. Metallurg lost 4 out of 6 matches, showing inconsistent performance. Neftekhimik won two out of five games. In the last Romazan Memorial, Metallurg defeated Neftekhimik 2-1. Metallurg has an advantage in head-to-head matches. It is expected that at the home tournament, Metallurg will want to showcase their best and secure a victory. Prediction: Metallurg's win.