FC Kolkheti Poti secured a narrow 1-0 win over Samtredia in the Georgia Erovnuli Liga 2 on September 16, 2026, at the Fazisi Stadium. A single second-half goal was enough to settle a tense, closely fought encounter that keeps the home side’s promotion push on track.

Match Overview

Both teams entered the match knowing that points were vital in the second tier of Georgian football. Kolkheti Poti, playing in front of their home supporters, started with intent but found Samtredia well organised and difficult to break down. The visitors sat deep, looking to spring counter-attacks through their quick wide players, while Kolkheti tried to impose themselves through patient possession.

The first half was a cautious affair, with few clear-cut chances. Kolkheti’s midfield trio worked hard to win the ball back, but Samtredia’s back four held firm, blocking crosses and clearing their lines effectively. The halftime whistle blew with the score level at 0-0, and both managers made tactical adjustments.

Key Moments

The decisive moment arrived in the 67th minute. Kolkheti Poti won a corner on the right side, and after a short exchange, the ball was whipped into the box. A flick-on at the near post found Tornike Gaprindashvili, who controlled the ball on his chest and volleyed it past the Samtredia goalkeeper from close range. The stadium erupted as the home side took a 1-0 lead.

Samtredia responded with urgency, pushing more players forward. In the 78th minute, they nearly equalised when a free-kick from the edge of the area clipped the top of the crossbar. Kolkheti’s goalkeeper then made a crucial save in the 85th minute, diving low to his left to deny a powerful shot from outside the box. The final minutes were nervous, but the home defence held on.

Tactical Story

Kolkheti Poti lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with the attacking midfielder given freedom to drift between the lines. Their full-backs pushed high to provide width, but Samtredia’s compact 4-4-2 made it difficult to find space in the final third. The home side’s patience eventually paid off, as they increased the tempo after the break and forced more set-piece opportunities.

Samtredia’s game plan was built on defensive solidity and rapid transitions. Their two strikers worked tirelessly to press the Kolkheti centre-backs, but as the game wore on, the visitors tired and left gaps in midfield. Kolkheti’s coach introduced fresh legs on the wings, which helped stretch the Samtredia defence and create the opening for the goal.

Standout Players

• Tornike Gaprindashvili (Kolkheti Poti): Scored the winning goal and was a constant threat with his movement in the box.
• Luka Chachua (Kolkheti Poti): The goalkeeper made two important saves, including a late stop that preserved the three points.
• Giorgi Kvernadze (Samtredia): The centre-back was impressive in the air and made several key interceptions before the goal.

Season Impact

The victory lifts Kolkheti Poti into a stronger position in the Erovnuli Liga 2 standings, keeping them within touching distance of the promotion places. For Samtredia, the defeat is a setback in their bid to climb the table, but their defensive display showed they can compete with the league’s stronger sides. Both teams will now turn their attention to the next round of fixtures, with Kolkheti looking to build momentum and Samtredia aiming to bounce back quickly.