Today in Gliwice, Poland, Lithuanian futsal champions FK Kauno Žalgiris began their journey in the UEFA Futsal Champions League Main Round. Facing an extremely tough opening test, the Lithuanian side showed courage and discipline against the Spanish champions FS Cartagena, ultimately falling 0-5.
Despite the heavy scoreline, Kauno Žalgiris – who have been flawless in the domestic league this season with five wins in five matches – demonstrated quality and resilience against one of Europe’s futsal powerhouses. FS Cartagena, bronze medalists of last season’s UEFA Futsal Champions League, came into the tournament in fine form, sitting second in Spain’s top division with a record of five wins, two draws, and one loss, just one point behind leaders ElPozo Murcia.
Kauno Žalgiris started the match with Lithuanian players Benas Spietinis, Justinas Zagur, Albert Voskunovič and two Brazilian legionnaires in the lineup. The Spaniards struck early, taking the lead in the 3rd minute through Waltinho, the Brazilian star who has been with Cartagena for four seasons. Moments later, Tomaz Braga doubled the advantage, and before halftime, another Brazilian, Juninho, made it 3-0.
Early in the second half, Francisco Cortés, a Spanish international with nine national team appearances, extended the lead to 4-0, while Juninho added his second of the night to seal the final score at 5-0.
Although Cartagena dominated possession and produced 32 shot attempts, the Lithuanian champions did answer with 18 of their own.
Also in the Kauno Žalgiris club are the hosts Piast Gliwice and Belgium league champions Anderlecht. The Polish and Belgian sides meet later tonight, while Kauno Žalgiris return to action tomorrow to face the hosts, Piast Gliwice.
The top three teams from this Main Round group will progress to the Round of 16, while the fourth-placed side will see their European campaign come to an end.
FK Kauno Žalgiris vs FS Cartagena – 0:5 (0:3)
Goals: Waltinho 3′, Braga 5′, Juninho 16′ 27′, Cortes 24′
