Georgia hand Bahrain defeat in Tbilisi friendly

TDT | Manama

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Bahrain’s senior men’s national team suffered a 2–0 defeat to Georgia last night in the first of their two international friendlies during their European training camp.

The match, played at Tbilisi’s Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, forms part of Bahrain’s preparations for two major upcoming competitions – the 27th Gulf Cup later this year, where they will defend their title, and the AFC Asian Cup 2027.

The hosts entered the contest as favourites and largely controlled proceedings against Dragan Talajic’s side, who were looking to gain valuable experience against a strong European opponent.

The opening half was relatively subdued, although Georgia consistently appeared the more threatening team. Bahrain largely relied on counter-attacks while trying to contain a Georgian side featuring several players from top European leagues, including Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

Saba Lobjanidze proved particularly dangerous for the hosts, who enjoyed the better of the chances before the interval but were unable to find a breakthrough.

Georgia eventually opened the scoring six minutes after the restart through defender Luka Lochoshvili. Kvaratskhelia delivered a cross from the left flank, and Lochoshvili’s run went untracked as he finished with a low volley to put the home side ahead.

The Georgians nearly doubled their advantage shortly afterwards when Kvaratskhelia rose highest to meet a cross, only to see his header strike the crossbar in the 58th minute.

Bahrain struggled to create openings throughout the evening and did not earn their first corner kick until the 65th minute, reflecting the overall balance of the match.

The hosts then secured victory from the penalty spot after Ahmad Rabeea was adjudged to have fouled Giorgi Kvernadze inside the area. Several Bahrain players were shown yellow cards for protesting the decision before Georgia captain Kvaratskhelia stepped up and calmly converted the resulting penalty, sending goalkeeper Mohammed Al Gharably the wrong way to make it 2–0.

Bahrain were unable to mount a response and finished the contest without registering a shot on target.

The nationals will now travel to Antalya, Türkiye, where they are scheduled to take on Syria in their second and final friendly on Tuesday. Kick-off is scheduled for 5pm Bahrain time at the Gloria Sports Arena.