16-year-old Tornike Kvaratskhelia is only taking his first steps in men’s football, but on Thursday at Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, he simply wove through “Žalgiris”‘s defense like warm wool.
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T. Kvaratskhelia’s game episodes against “Žalgiris”:
And although he didn’t make a single assist or score a goal, his constant breakthroughs drove the visitors’ defense to despair and created tension.
“He caused them a lot of problems,” praised Tbilisi “Dinamo” head coach Temur Ketsbaia after the crushing victory.
– I am satisfied with his performance. From the very first day with us, he showed that he can play great football.
He is only 16 years old. He has his whole life ahead of him, and a great future awaits him.”
Tornike Kvaratskhelia debuted in men’s football just two months ago – on May 16th. It’s an interesting coincidence that his famous brother Khvicha, who now represents UEFA Champions League winner PSG and is valued at 140 million euros, also started his professional career at the same age.
“His talent is immense. No less than Khvicha’s. I hope he succeeds in fulfilling the same expectations,” continued the “Dinamo” strategist.
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– The best thing is that he loves training. He is not yet ready to play 90 minutes and today he was brought down many times by opposing defenders, but that’s football, the professional level.
Today he was one of the best players on the field.”
Key episodes of the “Dinamo” – “Žalgiris” match:
The 16-year-old, who provoked many fouls from “Žalgiris” players, was substituted in the 68th minute of the match.
Andrius Skerla, the coach of “Žalgiris”, also did not spare compliments for the young talent after the painful defeat.
“We knew how he plays and what his strengths are. He surprises us a lot. He is only 16 years old, and he is already so physical and talented. Another Georgian star is growing. There were moments when he was not afraid of anything with the ball – he played aggressively, tried to attack. He has no fear,” noted A. Skerla.
The return match between “Žalgiris” and “Dinamo” in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers will take place next Thursday in Vilnius.
