Da Costa snatches draw for Zalgiris in dramatic finish

Doukas ruthless, Žalgiris dominant

The Lithuanians took control of the game from kick-off, piling up shots and corners. But it was Doukas who struck, without shining. Papadopoulos opened the scoring in the 17th minute, before Bertuola doubled the lead five seconds before the break from a free kick conceded by Da Costa (2-0, 20th). A cruel advantage for Žalgiris, dominant but clumsy, epitomised by an Anderson Tangará too often blocked or off target.

Vinicius Carvalho, from hero to culprit

After the break, Žalgiris broke the deadlock. Vinicius Carvalho first pulled one back (24th), before setting up Silva Rivera for the equaliser (2-2, 27th). Doukas replied immediately through Melo Dos Santos Mitidiere, on as a substitute (3-2, 28th).

The turning point then seemed to arrive. In the 33rd minute, Vinicius Carvalho received a second caution for a foul on K. Panou and was sent off. Greek captain Vinicious took advantage to make it 4-2 and give his side some breathing room.

Da Costa's crazy finish

Žalgiris, however, gave nothing away. In the 37th minute, Da Costa brought the game back to life (4-3). Eighty seconds later, from a Tangará corner, he equalised with less than two minutes left on the clock (4-4, 39th). Doukas could find no response.

Numbers that tell the story

With 32 shots to 14 and 16 corners to 4, Žalgiris largely dominated proceedings. The draw rewards their persistence. Doukas, efficient but too withdrawn in the final quarter of an hour, may regret letting two points slip through their fingers.