Lithuania’s top football club, FK Kauno Zalgiris, faces an unexpected challenge as they prepare for a historic Champions League qualifier later this month. Due to a prior commitment, the team must relocate their match away from home after renting out their Darius and Girenas Stadium for a concert by US rapper Pitbull on 31 July.

On Tuesday night, Zalgiris secured their spot in the second qualifying round by defeating Dritam of Kosovo 3-2, winning 4-3 on aggregate. This victory not only advances them in the tournament but also nets the club approximately €1.7 million in prize money. They are set to face the champions of the Faroe Islands, KI, on Tuesday, with the return leg scheduled for 28 or 29 July.

Initially, Zalgiris had intended to host their first match at home, but the scheduling conflict arose unexpectedly. The Faroe Islands celebrate St Olav’s Day on the same dates, complicating arrangements further. Consequently, Zalgiris will likely play in Jonava, a town roughly 30 km away, at a stadium that accommodates just over 2,500 spectators.

Head coach Zeljko Sopic expressed his frustration, stating, "We have to move because of a concert by some dog or somebody," emphasizing the disappointment of not playing at home. Club chair Mantas Kalnietis acknowledged the clash, noting that while concerts like Pitbull's are vital for revenue, they had hoped to avoid this situation.

Edgaras Stankevicius, president of the Lithuanian football federation, lamented the double booking, highlighting the importance of playing significant matches at home for the growth of Lithuanian football.