A message to the former player.
Ivan Sergeev secured a victory for Dynamo Moscow against Krasnodar in the 29th round of the Mir Russian Premier League – the forward’s goal left Krasnodar with zero points.
Sergeev came on as a substitute for Konstantin Tyukavin, and it just so happened that Monday was his 31st birthday. He marked the occasion with a winning goal.
Zenit, likely, wouldn’t have congratulated their former player under ordinary circumstances – but when he gave them such a crucial boost, the St. Petersburg club’s social media team couldn’t resist posting this.
Naturally, it racked up thousands of likes instantly.
And nearly as many laughing reactions.
Sergeev was a rotation player at Zenit but always contributed effectively: in 93 matches, he scored 30 goals. That included the golden goal against Spartak at the end of the 2022/23 season – a backheel in the penalty area in the 90+ minute, giving Zenit a 3-2 win and securing the title with four games to spare.
In the 2023/24 season, Sergeev lost his starting spot to Mateo Cassierra, and in August 2024, Zenit signed Alexander Sobolev and Luciano Gondou. Ivan barely played, logging only 20 minutes across seven matches. That prompted his decision to leave: Krylya Sovetov were the first to respond, offering €3 million.
Sergeev later explained to Sport24: “When you don’t play, you lose form and skills. It’s easier to regain fitness through matches. The decision to leave came at the end of the window. I parted with Zenit warmly, wishing everyone the best.”
In the 2024/25 season, the forward scored nine goals and attracted top clubs again: rumors linked him to Spartak, Dynamo, and even a return to Zenit. Sergeev chose Dynamo, joining Valeri Karpin’s team. Krylya sold him for the same €3 million they paid, and Moscow then bought him for €3.8 million.
So far, he hasn’t brought Dynamo any trophies, but now he has pushed his former club Zenit closer to the title.
And in St. Petersburg, they are grateful.
The moment that cost Krasnodar the lead. How did Boselli squander that chance?
What does Zenit need for the championship? They are as close as ever after Krasnodar’s defeat.
Photo: RIA Novosti / Alexander Vilf
