Kaunas Žalgiris dethrone the defending champions and lift the season 25/26 trophy
May 3, 2026
Kaunas Žalgiris lifted the Women’s Baltic Sea Handball League trophy on Sunday after defeating fellow Lithuanian side and defending champions CASCADA – HC Garliava SM 26:22 in the final at the Garliavos sporto centras.
Playing on the home court of the reigning champions, Žalgiris recovered from an early 2:0 deficit and gradually took control of the final through a strong defensive performance and excellent attacking efficiency led by Karolina Sparnauskaitė.
The first half remained closely contested throughout, with CASCADA leading 9:7 late in the opening period. However, Kaunas Žalgiris finished the half with three unanswered goals to take a 10:9 lead into the break – a momentum shift that proved decisive.
Žalgiris strengthened their advantage early in the second half behind Sparnauskaitė’s outstanding performance, extending the lead to 18:14. CASCADA attempted to respond through Martyna Ustilaitė, but Žalgiris remained in control during the closing stages.
A successful seven-meter throw from Sparnauskaitė in the 56th minute pushed the lead to 24:19 and effectively secured the Baltic league champions title for Kaunas Žalgiris.
Sparnauskaitė was the standout player of the final with 11 goals from 13 shots. Grėta Burkaitė added six goals, while Ramunė Poškutė contributed four for the champions.
For CASCADA – HC Garliava SM, Martyna Ustilaitė scored 10 goals, while Mantė Voskresenskaja added four.
Match Summary
Gold medal match result
CASCADA – HC Garliava SM vs Kaunas Žalgiris 22:26 (9:10)
Top Scorers
Kaunas Žalgiris:
- Karolina Sparnauskaitė – 11 goals
- Grėta Burkaitė – 6 goals
- Ramunė Poškutė – 4 goals
CASCADA – HC Garliava SM:
- Martyna Ustilaitė – 10 goals
- Mantė Voskresenskaja – 4 goals
Photo: Evaldas Šemiotas/Lithuanian Handball Federation