Aragvi Dusheti secured a 2-1 victory over Guria in the Round of 16 of the David Kipiani Cup on Saturday evening. The away side took the lead before half-time and held firm despite a late surge from the hosts. Guria had been building momentum with recent wins, but this result ends their cup run.
L. Kokosadze gave Guria the advantage in the 33rd minute, capitalising on sustained pressure from the home side. Possession was evenly split as the first half wore on, but Guria's 105 attacks compared to 111 for the visitors showed they were the more aggressive team. The goal came from a period where Guria had created several half-chances.
Aragvi Dusheti responded well after the break. D. Amoako levelled the score in the 75th minute, a moment that shifted the complexion of the tie. The visitors looked more composed in possession as the game opened up, and their composure was rewarded when T. Bzekalava struck in the 93rd minute to take the lead.
The late goal proved decisive, though Guria had not yet exhausted their options. They continued to press, but Aragvi Dusheti's defence held firm through the closing stages. The away team's five yellow cards told of the physical nature of the contest, yet they managed their discipline well when it mattered most.
Statistically, the match was balanced. Each side registered three shots on target, though Guria's seven shots off target suggested they created more opportunities. The visitors' 24 free kicks compared to 20 for Guria indicated the away side drew more fouls, possibly through their work rate in midfield.
Aragvi Dusheti advance to the quarter-finals, while Guria's cup campaign comes to an end. The hosts had won three of their last five matches, including a 6-1 victory over Merani Tbilisi, but this defeat means they will need to refocus on league ambitions. The away side's consistency in away fixtures may yet prove valuable in the latter stages of the competition.