In a tense showdown on November 1, 2025, Pobeda welcomed Shkëndija Haraçinë to the Goce Delchev Stadium in Prilep, hoping to leverage their recent success to make a bold statement against the league's second-placed team. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation, and as the match unfolded, it became clear that the stakes were high for both sides.
Shkëndija Haraçinë, riding a wave of confidence after seven wins in nine matches, was determined to maintain their unbeaten streak. They entered the contest with a series of narrow victories, including a recent 1-0 triumph against Osogovo, which showcased their tactical discipline and resilience. Meanwhile, Pobeda came off impressive consecutive wins, including a 3-0 victory over Sloga Vinica, which had sparked hope among their supporters.
From the outset, it was evident that Pobeda was eager to disrupt Shkëndija's rhythm. With their aggressive pressing style, they sought to capitalize on any missteps by the visitors. Yet, Shkëndija showcased their composure and tactical prowess, controlling possession with a measured approach.
The match turned on a significant moment midway through the first half. In the 37th minute, Lirim Zekiri found the back of the net for Shkëndija, sending a jolt of energy through the visiting team's supporters. This goal underscored their attacking intent and turned the match on its head. The visitors, known for their defensive solidity, now had the advantage, and Pobeda found themselves trailing with little margin for error.
Despite falling behind, Pobeda remained resolute, pushing forward in search of an equalizer. The home side generated several promising attempts, notably through key plays by Lazar Angelovski, whose recent form had given fans hope. However, Shkëndija's defense stood resilient, absorbing the pressure and countering effectively. Their ability to maintain composure in high-stakes moments proved critical as they held onto their lead through the remainder of the match.
The final whistle confirmed the 1-0 victory for Shkëndija Haraçinë, marking another step toward their championship aspirations. With this win, they consolidated their position in second place, boosting their points total to 26, while Pobeda remained in 11th place with just 10 points from 10 matches. The result highlighted the stark contrast in the current trajectories of the two teams: one on the rise, aiming for the top, while the other continues to struggle for consistency.
Reflecting on the pre-match predictions, it appears I misjudged the resilience of Shkëndija Haraçinë and their ability to withstand pressure. Although Pobeda had shown promise, they struggled to overcome the defensive depth and experience of their opponents.
As both teams prepare for their next fixtures, Pobeda will face Osogovo on November 4, hoping to turn their fortunes around. Meanwhile, Shkëndija seeks to extend their unbeaten run against Kozuv Gevgelija, eager to maintain their momentum as they chase the top of the league table.
This match not only served as a reminder of the competitive nature of the Second League but also emphasized the importance of critical moments and defensive integrity in shaping outcomes. For both teams, the road ahead remains pivotal, with questions lingering about who will seize the opportunities presented in the months to come.