Žalgiris hero Serb joked about opponent fans' remarks

FK Žalgiris has taken a commanding lead in their qualifying tie, defeating Petrovac 3-1 in the first leg held at the Podgorica stadium. The Lithuanian club secured a crucial two-goal advantage ahead of the return fixture in Vilnius, thanks to a stellar performance from Serbian forward N. Petkovič, who netted a brace.

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I am very happy that we put on a good performance and ultimately celebrated a victory. Of course, this was only the first half. In the second match, we have to finish our job and focus on the upcoming challenges.

Petkovič opened the scoring in the first half and doubled Žalgiris' lead in the second. Stanislav Bilenky sealed the victory with a late goal, solidifying the team's strong position. "I am very happy that we put on a good performance and ultimately celebrated a victory. Of course, this was only the first half," Petkovič stated after the match, emphasizing the need to finish the job in the next game.

The 29-year-old striker is in impressive form, having scored six goals in his last seven appearances. Reflecting on his two goals, Petkovič remained humble, saying, "I was waiting for my moments on the edge of the penalty area. Fortunately, with God's help, I scored goals. I am very happy because it is always important for me to score whenever I have the opportunity."

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I was waiting for my moments on the edge of the penalty area. Fortunately, with God's help, I scored goals. I am very happy because it is always important for me to score whenever I have the opportunity. I am grateful that I had the chance to play on this field and enjoy this wonderful moment.

Despite the win, Žalgiris faced challenges with injuries. Midfielder Bryna Teixeira was substituted in the second half, and goalkeeper Vincent Šarkauskas and defender Deividas Šešplaukis also required medical attention. Petkovič noted the physicality of Petrovac, a team largely composed of Montenegrin players known for tough play. "Honestly, I expected them to play physically and hard... I think they performed well, especially in the first half," he commented.

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Honestly, I expected them to play physically and hard, not let us play with the ball. I expected that before the match. I think they performed well, especially in the first half. But after the break... My second goal came at a good time because then we could calmly control the ball and not rush to score. This is a good team.

Playing in a region close to his native Serbia, Petkovič felt a sense of familiarity. "I enjoyed it very much and felt at home because we speak the same language, so I could understand everything that was being said both on and off the field. The Petrovac fans sent me messages from the stands, so it was interesting to hear that," he admitted with a laugh.

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I enjoyed it very much and felt at home because we speak the same language, so I could understand everything that was being said both on and off the field. The Petrovac fans sent me messages from the stands, so it was interesting to hear that.