The KHL semifinals intensify with the Gagarin Cup 2025 Final. Most fans and even betting enthusiasts follow the KHL final odds closely, as they are greatly interested in punting. There are certain trends that need to be analyzed in depth before making a bet for championship glory. Betting during the Gagarin Cup playoffs is different from the regular season, the two teams competing for the championship title tend to dedicate more effort towards gameplay odds. Each game in the finals is a best-of-seven series which results in tremendous competition. Final outcomes are unquestionably determined by goaltending, tempo, home-away momentum shifts, and series of seven games, all of which create different levels of intensity—alongside the most optimal bets.
KHL final predictions 2025
Before the playoffs began, SKA St. Petersburg and Metallurg Magnitogorsk were seen as the top contenders for the 2025 Gagarin Cup. They dominated their respective conferences and had the lowest odds from sportsbooks — 2.60 for SKA and 3.10 for Metallurg. However, both teams were eliminated before reaching the final, despite their strong performances during the season.
The Gagarin Cup Final will now feature Lokomotiv Yaroslavl and Traktor Chelyabinsk. Bookmakers currently offer the following odds for the final match:
| Outcome | Odds |
| Lokomotiv Yaroslavl to win | 2.45 |
| Draw in regular time | 3.85 |
| Traktor Chelyabinsk to win | 2.75 |
| Over 4.5 total goals | 1.88 |
| Under 4.5 total goals | 1.92 |
This suggests a highly balanced matchup, with Lokomotiv being the slight favourite. Bettors can also explore total goals markets, with odds reflecting expectations of a moderately scoring game.
KHL betting trends
- Underdogs frequently cover the spread, particularly in Game 1 of the final series.
- The moneyline in overtime games tends to favour home teams.
- The Under 5.5 goals market has hit over 65% of Gagarin Cup Finals since 2017.
Past Gagarin Cup winners
| Year | Winner |
| 2024 | Lokomotiv Yaroslavl |
| 2023 | CSKA Moscow |
| 2022 | Metallurg Magnitogorsk |
| 2021 | Avangard Omsk |
| 2020 | Cancelled |
KHL game details
The Gagarin Cup Final is currently underway between Lokomotiv Yaroslavl and Traktor Chelyabinsk. The series follows a best-of-seven format, with alternating home venues.
Scheduled games:
- Game 1: May 13 at Arena-2000 in Yaroslavl
- Game 2: May 15 at Arena-2000 in Yaroslavl
- Game 3: May 17 at Traktor Arena in Chelyabinsk
- Game 4: May 19 at Traktor Arena in Chelyabinsk
- Game 5: May 21 in Yaroslavl
- Game 6: May 23 in Chelyabinsk
- Game 7: May 25 in Yaroslavl
This is the first-ever Gagarin Cup Final meeting between these two clubs, both aiming to secure their maiden championship title. Games are broadcast live across Europe, and betting is available on platforms like Vivatbet. Puck drop is typically scheduled for 19:00 local time.
Participants:
The two finalists emerge after three intense playoff rounds — quarterfinals, semifinals, and conference finals — with seedings based on regular-season performance. Teams must win 12 postseason games to reach the final.
How to bet on Gagarin Cup
Betting on the Gagarin Cup up KHL final requires an understanding of team form, travel fatigue, and in-game adjustments. With long distances between cities like St. Petersburg and Magnitogorsk, travel can affect player recovery and performance. Additionally, coaching decisions betting — such as line changes or defensive matchups — often odds shift momentum mid-series. Recognising these subtleties gives bettors an edge when markets tighten around final games.
Popular markets:
- Moneyline: includes overtime and shootout.
- 3-Way result: regulation time only.
- Total goals (Over/Under): usually 4.5 or 5.5.
- Spread bets: often ±1.5 goals.
- Correct score, first to score, and player props (goals, assists).
Best strategies:
- Watch for goalie announcements — top KHL teams rotate starters based on back-to-back games.
- Sportsbook Bet live to react to momentum swings, especially after power plays or mid-period timeouts.
- In tight series, value often lies in Under markets and home moneyline.
- Use euro sportsbooks that offer cash back or bet boosts for playoff hockey.
Where to bet:
Top European sportsbooks like Gagarin Cup Vivatbet provide full KHL coverage, including early odds, series props, and live stats. Bonuses and promos are often tailored to high-profile finals — ideal for hockey fans who enjoy tournament-long betting. These platforms also offer detailed match previews, expert insights, and real-time cashout options, allowing punters to manage their bets dynamically as each Gagarin Cup game unfolds.