Amine Benchaib celebrates a Lithuanian title by breaking the trophy

Amine Benchaib has secured his fourth trophy in a year with Kauno Zalgiris. During the presentation of the Lithuanian championship title, the former Charleroi player kicked off the celebrations by breaking the trophy. In the adrenaline of the moment, he split the cup’s handle, prompting laughter from his teammates.

Benchaib first made a name for himself at Lokeren before trying his luck at Charleroi, where he played little. Arriving at Courtrai in 2021 to gain playing time he scarcely got at Mambourg under Karim Belhocine and then Edward Still, the attacking midfielder has not shone much at the Kerels.

Career in Eastern Europe

He revived his career in Romania, first with Mioveni and then with Farul. His wanderings later took him to Lithuania. After a six‑month period of inactivity in Panevezys, he signed in January 2025 with Kauno Zalgiris, the club with which he was champion last year and where he still plays.

This stint allowed him to take part in European Cup matches. This summer, the 28‑year‑old Ghent native played six preliminary round matches in the Champions League, two Europa League preliminaries and the first Conference League phase match against Brighton. This weekend, he sought to add a new title to his résumé.

Lithuanian title confirmed

Kauno Zalgiris has confirmed its Lithuanian championship title.

This gave Benchaib his second Lithuanian championship and his fourth trophy since joining the club.

During the celebrations, the former Carolo made headlines by breaking the trophy. In the heat of the moment, he shattered the cup’s handle, causing surprise. He joked by flexing his biceps, leaving doubt about the nature of the trophy provided by the federation.