Kauno Žalgiris moves closer to historic title with late equalizer against Hegelmann

FK Kauno Žalgiris took another major step toward the league championship, salvaging a 1-1 draw in the top-of-the-table clash against second-placed FC Hegelmann. With just six rounds remaining, Temur Chogadze struck a stunning long-range equalizer in the 88th minute, preserving Žalgiris’ eight-point cushion at the summit.

For Hegelmann, still reeling from their 0-1 Lithuanian Cup final defeat to Panevėžys just three days earlier, this match carried huge importance. To keep their title hopes alive, they needed to achieve something Hegelmann have not managed this season – beat Kauno Žalgiris.

The hosts came out firing and got off to a dream start. In the eighth minute, Nigerian striker Rasheed Yusuf broke behind the defense, raced one-on-one with the goalkeeper, and coolly lobbed the advancing keeper for his first league goal since May 31 – giving Hegelmann a 1-0 lead.

Žalgiris responded immediately with their first shot on target, and both sides continued to exchange attacking moves. Clear chances, however, were few and far between. Žalgiris looked most dangerous from set pieces, with Gratas Sirgedas and Damjan Pavlović both testing goalkeeper Vincentas Šarkauskas, who held firm for Hegelmann.

The second half saw the league leaders relentlessly push for an equalizer. They dominated possession, but Hegelmann’s defensive structure was strong and disciplined, while their counterattacks nearly doubled the advantage through chances for Wesley Gabriel and top scorer Leo Ribeiro – forcing some nervous moments for the Žalgiris back line.

But the breakthrough finally came. With time running out, Temur Chogadze decided to try his luck from distance, unleashing a thunderous strike from 25 meters that left the goalkeeper helpless. His spectacular goal not only salvaged a point but also moved Kauno Žalgiris a step closer to what would be their first-ever league crown.

The leaders pushed hard for a dramatic winner in stoppage time, but the match ended level – a result that felt bitter for Hegelmann head coach Andrius Skerla, yet a crucial one for Žalgiris boss Eivinas Černiauskas, who will surely be delighted with his side’s position.

With six games left to play, Kauno Žalgiris remain eight points clear at the top. Next up, the leaders face bottom side DFK Dainava Alytus in three days’ time, while Hegelmann will look to bounce back a day later when they host FK Banga Gargždai.

FC Hegelmann vs FK Kauno Žalgiris – 1:1 (1:0)
Goals: Yusuf 8′ | Chogadze 88′

A Lyga Matchday 34:

• 26.09.2025 – FK Banga Gargždai vs FC Džiugas Telšiai – 0:1
• 27.09.2025 – FA Šiauliai vs FK Riteriai – 2:1
• 29.09.2025 – FK Sūduva vs FK Žalgiris – 1:3
• 01.10.2025 – FC Hegelmann vs FK Kauno Žalgiris – 1:1
• 01.10.2025 – FK Paņevežys vs DFK Dainava Alytus – 3:1