In 1975, at the age of 17, Petrakov began his career with his local team, FC Dynamo Bryansk.

Petrakov spent his final six years abroad with FSV Wacker 90 Nordhausen in Germany and then with IFK Luleå in Sweden before retiring to coaching.

His playing career included two caps and one goal for the Soviet National Team.

Immediately after retirement, he was appointed as manager for IFK Luleå, where he finished his playing career.

Failing to achieve promotion there, he returned to the Russian Premier League with FC Moscow.