Zhenis Astana 2–2 FC Astana
Kazakhstan Premier League | June 28, 2026, 22:00

In a pulsating Kazakhstan Premier League derby, Zhenis Astana and FC Astana shared the spoils in a 2–2 draw that kept both sides locked in the upper half of the table. The fixture, played under the floodlights at the Astana Arena, delivered drama, quality goals, and a late twist that left the home faithful with mixed emotions.

First-Half Fireworks

The opening 45 minutes set the tone for an electrifying encounter. Zhenis struck first in the 18th minute when winger Maksim Kuleshov cut inside from the left and curled a precise shot into the far corner. The lead lasted only eight minutes, however, as FC Astana hit back through a well-worked team move finished by striker Artem Selyukov after a clever one-two with the midfield anchor.

Zhenis regained the advantage just before the half-time whistle when a defensive mix‑up allowed Daniyar Abdullayev to slot home from close range, making it 2–1 at the break. The home bench and crowd sensed a statement victory.

Second-Half Resilience

FC Astana, perennial contenders in the Kazakhstan Premier League, showed their pedigree after the interval. They dominated possession and pinned Zhenis back for long stretches. The equalizer arrived in the 72nd minute as substitute Vladimir Loginov rose highest to head home a corner kick, sparking fresh debate about Zhenis’ set‑piece vulnerability.

Both teams pushed for a winner. Zhenis nearly snatched it in stoppage time when Kuleshov rattled the crossbar, but the final whistle confirmed a share of the points.

Table Implications

The draw keeps Zhenis Astana in third place, while FC Astana remain second, four points behind league leaders Kairat Almaty. For a local derby that carried extra weight, the result may feel like two points dropped for both sides in a title race that promises to go down to the wire.