The 33-year-old athlete, who previously played for clubs such as Rubin (Russia), Lokomotiv (Russia), Metalist (Ukraine), Neftchi (Azerbaijan), and Al-Uhdud (Saudi Arabia), signed a contract with the newcomer of the Joghorku League, Toktogul, during the winter transfer window.
On March 6, the team from Toktogul played its first match in the top division of Kyrgyzstan, hosting Ilbirs from Bishkek.
Already in the 14th minute, 22-year-old Alisher Rakhimzhanov from Kazakhstan, showing his speed, broke into the Toktogul penalty area but was brought down by Kvirkvelia. Referee Nurgazy Cholponbaev did not wait for VAR assistance and immediately awarded a penalty.
Illya Karpuk, representing Russia, confidently converted the penalty kick, putting his team ahead — 1:0.
After the break, Kvirkvelia began to correct his mistakes. In the 49th minute, he scored the first goal in Toktogul's history in the top league, equalizing with a precise header after a corner, outjumping Karpuk in the aerial duel — 1:1.
View this post on Instagram
Post by FC Toktogul Official (@fctoktogull)
In the 52nd minute, Kvirkvelia and Karpuk clashed again in an aerial duel, but this time at the center line. The Russian did not give up the ball without a fight, and as a result of the collision, the Georgian sustained a cut on his brow. Nevertheless, he continued playing with a bandage on his head.
In the 68th minute, Toktogul earned a new corner, and Kvirkvelia, marked by 17-year-old Amantur Isakov, opened the scoring again, confidently heading the ball and scoring the decisive goal.
View this post on Instagram
Post by FC Toktogul Official (@fctoktogull)
As a result, Toktogul achieved its first victory in the top division, defeating their opponent 3:2.
Kvirkvelia became the author of the first double of the new season of the Joghorku League, which brought success to his team.
After the match, he was awarded the title of the best player of the game.
View this post on Instagram
Post by Kyrgyz Premier League (@kyrgyzpremierleague)
