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In the first matches of the UEFA Champions League first qualifying round, Lithuanian champions FBK "Kaunas" defeated the "Sliema Wanderers" club from Malta.
In the match held at the Ta'Qali National Stadium in Malta, "Kaunas" scored twice and secured the victory. The goals were scored by defenders Darius Žutautas and Darius Sanajevas. By the way, Žutautas' goal was the first one in the 2004/2005 Champions League.
Such result will allow the residents of Kaunas to feel more confident in the return match, which will take place at the "Dariaus and Girėno" stadium on July 21st. If "Kaunas" manages to maintain this lead, they will play against the Swedish champions in the second qualifying round.
- 0 - 2
56'
78'
The visitors first threatened the opponents' goal when Akanji caught Mikoliūnas's pass-shot. In the 13th minute, the hosts had a chance, but Anonamo's header was saved by Kurskis.
After six minutes, Velička's attempt was inaccurate. In the 38th minute, Mau almost scored, and just before the end of the half, the goalkeeper saved a shot from Barevičius up close.
The first goal was scored after 11 minutes in the second half - after Bezykornov's pass, Žutautas sent the ball into the net with his head.
Soon after, "Sliema" almost equalized, as Mangion broke through after a pass from Dončičius, but he couldn't outsmart the "Kaunas" goalkeeper. In the 66th minute, Velička had a similar opportunity, as he also jumped alone in front of the goal, but unfortunately, he shot straight at the goalkeeper.
The residents of Kaunas doubled their lead in the 78th minute: a penalty was awarded, Bezykornov lifted the ball into the penalty area and Sanajevas struck accurately. This result satisfied the visitors, and they tried to defend their goal until the end of the match.
