Shkendija Tetovo strengthened their credentials in the North Macedonia First Football League with a commanding 3-1 away win over FK Skopje on Sunday evening.

Shkendija take charge

The visitors started with intent and were rewarded for their early pressure. A well-worked move down the left created the opening goal in the 14th minute, finished calmly after a cutback into the box. Shkendija’s midfield controlled the rhythm of the game, and FK Skopje struggled to close the gaps between their defensive and midfield lines.

The second goal arrived in the 38th minute, again from a move that exposed Skopje’s wide areas. Shkendija’s attacking players rotated well, dragging defenders out of position and creating space for late runners. At 2-0, the away side looked in complete control.

Key moments

• 14 minutes: Shkendija open the scoring with a neat finish from a left-sided attack.
• 38 minutes: A quick combination doubles the visitors’ lead.
• 57 minutes: FK Skopje pull one back with a determined finish after a spell of pressure.
• 84 minutes: Shkendija seal the win with a late third goal on the counter.

FK Skopje improved after the break and their goal in the 57th minute gave the home crowd hope. For a short period, Shkendija looked rattled, and Skopje pushed forward in search of an equaliser. But the visitors’ experience told in the closing stages, and a late counter-attacking goal ended any doubt.

Tactical story

Shkendija’s 4-2-3-1 shape worked effectively, with their attacking midfielder finding pockets of space between Skopje’s lines. The visitors pressed intelligently, forcing errors in midfield and then breaking quickly into the channels. FK Skopje’s response was spirited, but they left too much room behind their full-backs when chasing the game.

Shkendija’s ability to switch play from one side to the other was a constant problem. Skopje’s defence worked hard, but the constant movement of Shkendija’s front four created mismatches and late arrivals in the box.

Standout performers

Shkendija’s attacking midfielder was the game’s most influential player, linking play and creating chances throughout. Their centre-forward also impressed with hold-up play and intelligent movement. For FK Skopje, the goalkeeper made several saves to keep the score respectable, while their midfielder’s energy drove the brief second-half comeback attempt.

Season impact

The three points keep Shkendija Tetovo firmly in the title conversation and reinforce their reputation as one of the league’s most dangerous away sides. FK Skopje, meanwhile, are left to reflect on a difficult evening against superior opposition. The result underlines the gap between the league’s leading contenders and the sides battling for consistency.