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| Country |  Russia |
| Season | 2023 |
The "First League," also known as the Russian Football National League (FNL), is the second tier of the Russian football league system, after the Russian Premier League. Established in 1992, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, it has been a significant platform for nurturing local talent and promoting them to the higher echelons of Russian football.
The league consists of 20 teams, each vying for a chance to get promoted to the Russian Premier League. The top two teams at the end of each season are promoted directly, while the teams finishing from 3rd to 6th position participate in promotion play-offs against the 13th and 14th Premier League teams. Conversely, the lowest-ranking teams are relegated to the Russian Professional Football League, the third tier of Russian football.
The First League has been a breeding ground for many successful Russian football clubs. Teams like FC Rostov, Rubin Kazan, and Amkar Perm have all spent time in the First League before making their mark in the Premier League. The league has also been instrumental in developing Russian football talent, with many players getting their first professional experience in the First League before moving on to bigger clubs domestically and internationally.
The league operates on a system of promotion and relegation, which keeps the competition intense and the stakes high. The season typically runs from July to May, with each team playing the others twice, once at home and once away, totaling to 38 games per team.
Despite being the second-tier league, the First League has managed to garner a significant following. The matches are often broadcasted on national television, and the teams enjoy a dedicated fan base. The league also has its own awards, such as the "Best Player" and "Best Coach" of the season, further contributing to its prestige.
The First League has had its share of challenges, including financial instability of some clubs and match-fixing allegations. However, it has managed to overcome these issues and continues to play a crucial role in Russian football. It remains a key stepping stone for clubs and players aiming to compete at the highest level of Russian football.
First League predictions
Predictions for First League: See upcoming and historic predictions for First League below.
Khimki
Shinnik Yaroslavl
Enisey
Alaniya Vladikavkaz
Rodina Moskva
Leningradets
Rodina Moskva
Leningradets
FK Neftekhimik
Makhachkala
FK Neftekhimik
Makhachkala
Volgar Astrakhan
Tyumen
Volgar Astrakhan
Tyumen
Disclaimer: Past performance does not guarantee future results. Betting involves risk; only wager what you can afford to lose. Always gamble responsibly.