Lithuanian international Kipras Kažukolovas played a key role in helping FC Astana secure their fifth consecutive Kazakhstan Premier League victory, as they edged out fellow title contenders FC Aktobe 1-0 on the road.
The 24-year-old centre-back was named in the starting lineup for the second match in a row. After contributing to a convincing 5-2 win over Okzhetpes last week, Kažukolovas once again delivered a composed defensive performance—this time against a much stronger opponent. Aktobe, sitting near the top of the table, came into the match just four points behind Astana.
The first half ended goalless, and the second half appeared to be heading in the same direction until the 82nd minute, when Astana were awarded a penalty. Albanian midfielder Nazmi Gripshi stepped up and converted in the 84th minute to break the deadlock.
Astana, who won one of their two matches against Aktobe last season, managed to hold on to the narrow lead and secure all three points. The win restores their three-point lead over nearest challengers Kairat Almaty.
Kažukolovas completed the full 90 minutes, marking his 12th league appearance of the season. FC Astana will look to extend their winning streak next Sunday when they host Kyzylzhar, currently 8th in the 14-team standings.
