Ghana defender Alexander Djiku scored the decisive penalty to send Spartak Moscow into the final of the Russian Cup after a dramatic semi-final victory over Zenit St Petersburg.
Djiku played the full match as both sides battled to a goalless draw in regulation time, forcing the tie into a penalty shootout. Spartak eventually triumphed 7-6, with the Ghana international calmly converting his spot-kick to seal qualification.
The Red and Whites had an opportunity to win the match earlier, but Esequiel Omar Barco missed a first-half penalty. Defensively, Djiku formed a strong partnership with Christian Wooh to keep Zenit’s attack, led by Jhon Duran, at bay.
Reacting after the game, Djiku praised his team’s resilience and fighting spirit, describing the victory as a special moment, particularly in a high-stakes derby encounter.
Spartak Moscow will now face city rivals CSKA Moscow in the final, as they aim to lift the trophy.
Djiku, who joined the club from Fenerbahce, continues to play a key role and is chasing the first major trophy of his career.
