VJFM Fortuna were held to a 2-2 draw by FK Riteriai B in a thrilling encounter in the Lithuanian II Lyga, but Nigerian attacking midfielder, Noah Abolaji Salaudeen, continued his incredible form, scoring his 14th goal of the season.
Salaudeen gave VJFM Fortuna an early advantage, striking in the 21st minute with a composed finish, putting his side 1-0 ahead. The talented midfielder has now recorded 14 goals and 4 assists this season, further establishing himself as one of the standout performers in the league.
FK Riteriai B pushed for an equalizer throughout the first half but were unable to break through. Just before halftime, Edmundas Dobilas received a yellow card in the 45th minute for a harsh challenge. The first half ended with VJFM Fortuna leading 1-0.
The second half started explosively, with Justas Cesnavicius doubling Fortuna’s lead in the 48th minute, making it 2-0. However, FK Riteriai B responded swiftly. Just three minutes later, Petro Harapko pulled a goal back in the 51st minute, reigniting the home team’s hopes.
FK Riteriai B made substitutions in the 57th minute, bringing on Arijus Rusinas for Harapko and Artiom Timocha for Mohammed El Arbi, in an effort to turn the game around.
Their persistence paid off as Konstantas Cincikas equalized in the 62nd minute, bringing the scoreline to 2-2. Two minutes later, VJFM Fortuna’s Edvin Volodkovic was shown a yellow card for a late tackle.
Both sides made several substitutions late in the game:
VJFM Fortuna:
Mark Tkacenko replaced Vakaris Gurksnys
Vakaris Pakštas came on for Justas Cesnavicius
Augustinas Jančius for Nikolas Oskinis
FK Riteriai B:
Nikita Knysev replaced Konstantas Cincikas
Rokas Petrauskas for Mohammadmehdi
Rytis Bernotas for Daniil Gurbo
Despite both teams pressing for a late winner, the match ended in a 2-2 draw after 90 minutes of competitive football.
While VJFM Fortuna will be disappointed not to secure all three points, the spotlight remains on Noah Abolaji Salaudeen, whose goal-scoring prowess continues to turn heads in Lithuania.