Lithuanian internationals enjoyed productive outings on Sunday, with Justas Lasickas scoring his first goal for Rijeka in Croatia, while Kipras Kažukolovas provided an assist as Astana extended their winning run in Kazakhstan.
Former Croatian league champions opened their domestic campaign with a 2-1 home victory over Rudeš, as Justas Lasickas played a key role in the result. The 28-year-old Lithuania captain started the match and broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, arriving at the far post to convert an excellent cross from Toni Fruk with a first-time finish.
It was Lasickas’ first competitive goal for Rijeka since joining the club last summer, having gone scoreless in 47 appearances during his debut season.
Rijeka doubled their advantage after the break before Rudeš pulled one back midway through the second half to set up a tense finish. However, the hosts held on to secure all three points in their opening league fixture. Lasickas completed the full 90 minutes and now turns his attention to Thursday’s UEFA Conference League third qualifying round first leg against Finnish side Ilves.
In the Kazakhstan Premier League, Kipras Kažukolovas registered an assist as Astana defeated Ulytau 2-0 away from home to claim their fourth consecutive league victory.
The 25-year-old centre-back played a long ball forward in the 11th minute, finding Marin Tomasov, who controlled it brilliantly before finishing to give Astana the lead. The Croatian forward later sealed the victory with his second goal deep into stoppage time.
Kažukolovas played the full match and recorded his first league assist of the season, having now featured in seven league games. Astana sit third in the Kazakhstan Premier League with 35 points from 19 matches, trailing leaders Ordabasy by 11 points and second-placed Kairat Almaty by 10. Their next league fixture comes next Sunday at home against Okzhetpes.
