KuPs 0–2 FC Vardar Skopje: Macedonian Side Strikes First in Champions League Qualifying

A disciplined and clinical performance from FC Vardar Skopje earned them a vital 2–0 victory away at Finnish champions KuPs in the first qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League on July 14, 2026. The result gives Vardar a commanding lead heading into the return leg in North Macedonia.

Match Overview

KuPs started the match at a high tempo, looking to impose themselves on the European stage. Their early pressure, however, failed to produce a clear-cut chance, and Vardar grew into the game. The visitors broke the deadlock in the 34th minute after a swift counter-attack. Winger Stefan Ristovski cut inside from the left and curled a beautiful shot into the far corner, leaving the KuPs goalkeeper with no chance. The home side pushed for an equaliser before half-time but were denied by some last-ditch defending.

Second Half Decisive for Vardar

The second half followed a similar pattern: KuPs enjoyed more possession but struggled to break down a compact Vardar defence. In the 72nd minute, the Macedonians doubled their lead. A long ball forward found striker Darko Galevski, who held off his marker before firing low into the net. KuPs had a golden opportunity to pull one back from the penalty spot 10 minutes later, but the spot-kick was saved by Vardar goalkeeper Filip Jovanovski, who was outstanding throughout.

Standout Performers and Season Implications

Jovanovski’s saves and Galevski’s clinical finishing were the key differences. For KuPs, the defeat is a major blow to their European ambitions, but the tie is not over. They will travel to Skopje needing to overturn the two-goal deficit. Vardar, meanwhile, will be confident of progressing, having kept a clean sheet away from home.