UEFA Champions League Qualifier: FC Kairat Almaty Edge FK Sutjeska Niksic 2-1

FC Kairat Almaty took a significant step toward the next round of the UEFA Champions League qualifiers with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over FK Sutjeska Niksic on July 8, 2026. The match, played at the Central Stadium in Almaty, saw the Kazakh champions fend off a resilient Montenegrin side in a contest that tilted dramatically after a red card early in the second half.

First Half – Sutjeska Stun the Home Crowd

The opening 45 minutes were tightly contested, with both teams feeling each other out. Kairat controlled possession, but Sutjeska's counterattacking threat was ever-present. In the 23rd minute, the visitors silenced the home fans. A swift break down the right flank saw striker Miloš Bakrač slip his marker and fire low past Kairat goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov. The goal gave Sutjeska a shock lead and set up an uphill battle for Kairat.

Kairat responded well, pushing forward with purpose. Their equalizer came just before half-time when Artur Shushenachev latched onto a through ball from Jordão Diogo and slotted calmly into the far corner. The stadium erupted, and the teams went into the break level at 1-1.

Second Half – Turning Point and Winner

The match changed irrevocably in the 52nd minute. Sutjeska defender Nikola Đurić received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Kairat midfielder Yan Vorogovsky. Down to ten men, the visitors were forced to sit deeper. Kairat seized the initiative. In the 68th minute, Vágner Love – the veteran Brazilian forward – showed his class. He collected a pass on the edge of the box, twisted past a defender, and unleashed a curling shot that beat the goalkeeper. It was his 12th goal in European competition for Kairat.

Sutjeska pushed for an equalizer in the final minutes, hitting the crossbar through a free kick, but Kairat held firm. The 2-1 win gives the Kazakh side a slender advantage heading into the second leg in Montenegro.

Standout Performances

• Vágner Love (Kairat) – His experience and composure proved decisive. The goal was a reminder of his quality at 41 years old.
• Artur Shushenachev (Kairat) – Tireless running and a crucial equalizer.
• Miloš Bakrač (Sutjeska) – His early goal and overall threat troubled Kairat all night.

What’s Next

The second leg is scheduled for July 15 in Nikšić. Kairat will aim to avoid a slip-up, while Sutjeska need a 1-0 win to progress on away goals. The tie remains finely balanced.