Iveria Khashuri 3–3 FC Betlemi Keda: Thrilling Georgia Cup Quarterfinal Ends All Square

In a pulsating Georgia Cup quarterfinal at the Iveria Stadium on 26 June 2026, Iveria Khashuri and FC Betlemi Keda played out a dramatic 3–3 draw, leaving the tie finely poised ahead of the return leg. Both sides showed attacking ambition from the first whistle, producing an end-to-end spectacle that kept the home faithful on the edge of their seats.

Match Overview

The Georgian Cup has a long tradition of producing upsets, and this match lived up to that billing. Iveria Khashuri, competing in the second tier, faced a Betlemi Keda side known for their disciplined counter-attacking style. The visitors struck first through a rapid break, but the hosts responded with two quick goals before halftime. The second half saw momentum swing back and forth, with both teams finding the net again to leave the aggregate score perfectly balanced.

Key Moments

• 6' – Betlemi Keda opener: A long ball over the top caught the Iveria defence napping, and winger Giorgi Kevkhishvili slotted calmly past the goalkeeper.
• 23' – Iveria equaliser: A corner kick was met by a powerful header from centre-back Levan Sikharulidze, restoring parity.
• 39' – Iveria take the lead: A swift counter-attack ended with striker Zurab Tskhovrebashvili firing low into the far corner.
• 58' – Betlemi Keda equalise again: A free kick from 25 yards curved over the wall and into the top corner – a stunning strike by midfielder Davit Gorgodze.
• 72' – Iveria restore advantage: Substitute Lasha Beridze latched onto a through-ball and chipped the advancing keeper.
• 89' – Dramatic late equaliser: A scramble in the box following a corner saw Betlemi Keda's Giorgi Tkeshelashvili poke home from close range.

Tactical Story

Iveria attempted to control possession through their midfield trio, but Betlemi Keda's 4–4–2 shape forced them into wide areas. The visitors' pressing game caused Iveria several problems, especially in the first 20 minutes. However, after the equaliser, Iveria found rhythm in transition and exploited space behind the full-backs. Betlemi Keda's set-piece threat proved decisive twice – once for an equaliser and once for the dramatic late leveller.

Standout Performers

Levan Sikharulidze was a colossus at both ends for Iveria, scoring the opener and winning numerous aerial duels. For Betlemi Keda, Davit Gorgodze's free-kick was a moment of pure quality, and Giorgi Tkeshelashvili's late goal kept their cup hopes alive. The goalkeepers were kept busy, with Iveria's Nikoloz Belashvili making several sharp saves despite conceding three.

What It Means

The 3–3 draw gives Betlemi Keda a slight advantage thanks to the away goals rule, but Iveria Khashuri will feel they can finish the job in the second leg. The Georgian Cup remains wide open, and this quarterfinal tie promises more drama ahead.