CHELYABINSK, Russia (Interstat) — Two teams riding hot streaks and locked in an early-season tie in the Kontinental Hockey League standings will face off Friday when Traktor Chelyabinsk hosts Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk at Traktor Sport Palace.

Both clubs enter the contest with identical 3-2-0 records, adding stakes to what is already a developing rivalry. The teams met just 10 days prior, on Sept. 9, with Traktor edging Neftekhimik 4-3 in Nizhnekamsk.

Traktor arrives with momentum from a decisive 2-0 road victory over Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg on Wednesday. Goaltender Chris Driedger was impeccable, stopping all 33 shots he faced for the shutout. Forwards Yegor Korshkov and Andrei Nikonov provided the offense, each recording a goal.

Neftekhimik is also coming off a strong road win, having defeated Ak Bars Kazan 2-1 on Wednesday. Goaltender Filipp Dolganov was the backbone of the victory, making 47 saves on 48 shots. Forwards Danil Yurtaikin and defenseman Artyom Serikov were offensive catalysts, each contributing a goal and an assist in the upset.

The matchup presents a compelling goaltending duel between Traktor’s Driedger, who is coming off a perfect performance, and Neftekhimik’s Dolganov, who is fresh off a 47-save night.

According to Interstat, the odds favor the home side. Their game simulator projects a 3-2 victory for Traktor, and their ELO rating system gives Chelyabinsk a 76.8% probability of winning.

Following this game, Traktor will remain at home to host Spartak Moscow on Sunday. Neftekhimik continues its road trip, traveling to face Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg on Sunday.