FC Lazika claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over FC Kolkheti Poti in Georgia's Erovnuli Liga 2 on August 8, 2026, giving themselves a significant boost in the promotion race. The match at their home ground was scrappy at times, but the home side’s resilience and quality in key moments proved decisive.

Match Overview

Lazika came into the match knowing a win was essential if they were to keep pace with the division's leading pack. They started brightly, moving the ball quickly and pressing Kolkheti Poti into mistakes. However, the visitors grew into the game after the break, and the final twenty minutes were tense after they set up a grandstand finish.

Key Moments

• 24th minute – 1-0: Lazika opened the scoring through a well-worked move, with striker Giorgi Ketelauri finishing from close range following a low cross from the right.
• 57th minute – 2-0: A corner was flicked on at the near post, allowing Nika Chkonia to head home from two metres.
• 81st minute – 2-1: Kolkheti Poti set up a nervy finale when Levan Imedadze beat the offside trap and slotted past the keeper.

Tactical Story

Lazika set up in a compact 4-4-2 that aimed to win the ball in midfield and release their quick wide players early. Their first goal came from exactly that pattern, and for long stretches they managed the game well, slowing the tempo when needed.

Kolkheti Poti, who had been struggling for confidence, switched to a more direct approach after falling two goals behind. They created several chances from long throws and crosses but lacked the composure in front of goal to find an equaliser.

Standout Players

• Giorgi Ketelauri (FC Lazika) – His movement and link-up play were crucial, and he capped it with the opener.
• Nika Chkonia (FC Lazika) – Scored the winner and led the defensive line superbly when Kolkheti Poti pushed forward late.
• Levan Imedadze (FC Kolkheti Poti) – The away side's brightest spark, his goal gave his team a lifeline.

Table & Season Impact

The three points lifted FC Lazika up the Erovnuli Liga 2 standings, placing them on track for a late push toward the promotion places. In a tightly contested second tier, every victory matters, and this one could prove crucial in the final reckoning.

For FC Kolkheti Poti, the defeat leaves them in a precarious position, hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone. Their late goal showed character, but they will need more consistent performances if they are to avoid a season of struggle.

With a victory in a match that featured drama and determination, Lazika will be looking to build on this momentum in the weeks ahead.