Kaunas Žalgiris did not perform a miracle in Istanbul

2026-08-20 21:50 © zalgiris.lt

Željko Sopič's team FK "Kauno Žalgiris" began the decisive UEFA Europa League qualifying round series against Istanbul "Beşiktaş" with a defeat. In Turkey, the Lithuanian champions lost 0:3 (0:2).

The Žalgiris players started the match defensively, but the home fans didn't have to wait long for the first goal.

In the 6th minute, "Beşiktaş" managed to score from a corner kick, with South Korean national team forward Hyeon-Gyu Oh being the first to head the ball in.

After another six minutes, the Istanbul team scored again. Ridvan Yilmaz executed a great pass, after which Panamanian national team member Michael Murillo directed the ball into the net – 0:2.

In the 27th minute, "Kauno Žalgiris" created their first chance. After a cross from Joris Moutachy, Leonas Krekovičius headed the ball just over the goal.

Before the end of the first half, "Beşiktaş" had a few more opportunities but failed to capitalize on them.

The second half also started with a dangerous shot from "Beşiktaş," but Tomas Švedkauskas performed excellently in goal.

In the 59th minute, the hosts scored another goal – team captain Orkun Kökçü found the net from the penalty spot.

Then, T. Švedkauskas denied another very dangerous shot from the opponents – Dušan Vlahović missed his opportunity to score this time.

The return match will take place on August 27 at Kaunas Darius and Girėnas Stadium.