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Ilya DatunashviliSoviet footballer, striker
Date of Birth: 01.09.1937
Country:  Georgia |
Content:
- Early Career in Youth Football
- Rise to Prominence
- Record-Breaking Performance
- Achievements and Recognition
Early Career in Youth Football
Mikhail Meskhi was born into a family of a policeman. His football journey began in 1954 with Kolmeurne Lanchkhuti, a local youth team.
Rise to Prominence
In 1957-1958, Meskhi joined Torpedo Kutaisi, where he honed his skills. In 1959, he made the pivotal move to Dynamo Tbilisi, where he spent the majority of his professional career until 1968.
Record-Breaking Performance
On September 22, 1966, in a match against Ararat, Meskhi etched his name into history. He scored an astonishing five goals in just 27 (or 28) minutes, matching a record set by Yevgeny Shelagin in 1938.
Achievements and Recognition
Meskhi's remarkable achievements include winning the Soviet Top League Championship in 1964. He also secured third place in 1962 and 1967. In 1966, he emerged as the top scorer of the league with 20 goals. Moreover, he was named to the list of 33 best football players of the season twice, in 1964 and 1966.
