Crvena Zvezda 1-2 OFK Beograd: Stunning Upset Shakes the Serbian Superliga

Belgrade, Serbia – May 23, 2026 – The Serbian Mozzart Bet Superliga witnessed a major shock as league leaders Crvena Zvezda (Red Star) suffered a 1-2 home defeat to city rivals OFK Beograd at the Rajko Mitić Stadium. The result hands the title race a dramatic twist, with OFK snapping a long losing streak against their dominant neighbours.

Match Overview

OFK Beograd, traditionally the smaller club in the capital, played with fearless intensity from the first whistle. They took a surprise lead in the 12th minute when a deflected cross fell to striker Milan Petrović, who smashed a half-volley past Zvezda's goalkeeper. The hosts equalised just after the half-hour mark through a penalty converted by their star forward, but OFK refused to buckle and restored their advantage five minutes before half-time with a well-worked set-piece.

Key Moments

• 12' – OFK opener: Petrović's instinctive finish stuns the home crowd.
• 33' – Zvezda penalty: Coolly dispatched to make it 1-1.
• 40' – OFK winner: A header from a corner routine leaves the Zvezda defence flat-footed.
• 67' – Red card: Zvezda full-back sent off for a second yellow card, ending any hopes of a late comeback.

Tactical Story

Crvena Zvezda, known for their dominant possession style, struggled to cope with OFK's aggressive pressing. The visitors packed midfield and forced Zvezda into long-range efforts. After the red card, OFK sat deep and absorbed pressure comfortably, with their goalkeeper producing a handful of routine saves. Zvezda's inability to create clear-cut chances was a worrying sign for manager Vladan Milojević.

Standout Players

• Milan Petrović (OFK Beograd) – Scored the opening goal and led the line tirelessly, holding up play effectively.
• Jovan Stanković (OFK Beograd) – The centre-back won every aerial duel and blocked two goal-bound shots.

Impact on the Standings

The defeat means Zvezda's lead at the top is cut to just three points over second-placed Partizan, who play later this weekend. OFK climb to eighth but, more importantly, gain a famous victory that could galvanise their season. The title race in Serbia is now very much alive.