HJK lost the first game against Panevėžys 3-0
Panevėžys vs
HJK
It was a tough opening game for HJK in the tie against Panevėžys in the Champions League. Panevėžys secured a commanding 3-0 victory at home, setting the stage for an intriguing return leg at Kartano Tekonurmi on Tuesday.
Panevėžys began the match on the front foot, with E. Veliulis netting the opener in the 17th minute thanks to an assist by R. Mazáň, giving them an early 1-0 lead. As the game progressed, N. Gorobsov doubled their advantage in the 65th minute.
Just two minutes later, Panevėžys extended their lead further as N. Mbo found the net with another assist from the influential R. Mazáň, making it 3-0. However, the hosts faced a setback when Cheikhou Dieng was sent off in the 71st minute.
The scenario is set for a thrilling second leg on 16 July, when HJK will seek to overturn the deficit against Panevėžys. The clash at Kartano Tekonurmi promises to be a captivating encounter with everything to play for.