The decisive UEFA Women's Champions League qualifying match took place in Šiauliai on Saturday. In the Group 3 final, Lithuanian champions Gintra faced formidable opponents Celtic Glasgow.
Fighting until the last minute and leaving everything on the pitch, Gintra 0:2 (0–1 at half-time) lost to Celtic, who advanced to the main Champions League competition.
In the third-place match, Finnish champions KuPS Kuopio defeated Moldova's Agarista CSF Anenii Noi 6–0.
Starting lineup: L. Tuomi, A. Mikutaitė, S. Amorim, R. Beal, L. Peabody, A. Kazarina (66' min. L. Kubiliūtė), S. Jaatinen, M. Hagstrom, T. Shamase, T. Seara (46' min. E. Šupelytė, 86' min, K. Hawkinson), S. Shamase.
Goals:
„Celtic“: S. McGregor (21' min.), K. Loferski (81' min.) one each.
The final was intense and physical from the start. Despite Celtic's immediate attacking intent, Gintra stayed composed and weathered the first wave. They soon had a counterattacking opportunity themselves, but Trista Seara's delivery into the area found no teammate.
Celtic broke through in the 21st minute, Shannon McGregor's accurate long-range strike putting the visitors 1–0 ahead.
The referee awarded Celtic a penalty in the 28th minute, but Gintra goalkeeper Liisa Tuomi reacted well to save and prevent the lead doubling. The score remained 0–1 at half-time.
Returning with renewed energy and inspiration, the Lithuanian champions grew in confidence and created chances. Sphumelele Shamase had one of the best in the 59th minute, heading narrowly wide. Moments later, Agnieška Kazarina broke down the right and delivered a dangerous cross, but it was too high.
Inspired by passionate support, Gintra continued boldly and unsettled the Scottish side. Monica Hagstrom tried from distance, but the goalkeeper was ready. Captain Algimantė Mikutaitė also shot from inside the penalty area, only to be denied by reliable goalkeeping.
In the 81st minute, the Scottish champions exploited a defensive gap for a second goal, effectively settling the match at 0–2.
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