Shkendija Tetovo 2-1 FK Akademija Pandev Brera Strumica | North Macedonia First Football League | 15 May 2026

Shkendija Tetovo kept their slender title hopes alive with a hard-fought 2-1 home win over a resilient FK Akademija Pandev Brera Strumica side at the Ecolog Arena. The victory moved the Eagles to within three points of league leaders FC Struga, setting up a dramatic final week of the season.

Match Overview

Shkendija started brightly, dominating possession and creating early chances. Their pressure paid off in the 18th minute when striker Besart Ibraimi swept home a cross from the left wing. However, Akademija Pandev responded with a well-organized defensive block and equalized just before halftime through a set-piece header from veteran defender Goran Siljanovski.

Key Moments

• 18' Goal – Besart Ibraimi (Shkendija): A clinical finish from close range after a pull-back by winger Valon Ethemi.
• 32' Miss – Shkendija's Florent Musliu: Headed over the bar from six yards when it seemed easier to score.
• 45+1' Goal – Goran Siljanovski (Akademija Pandev): Rose highest to meet a corner kick and directed it past the goalkeeper.
• 71' Goal – Enis Fazli (Shkendija): A low drive from outside the box that took a slight deflection and beat the keeper at his near post.

Tactical Story

Shkendija’s manager opted for a 4-2-3-1 that allowed creative midfielder Enis Fazli to roam between the lines. That decision paid off as Fazli not only scored the winner but also created three chances. Akademija Pandev sat deep in a 5-4-1 and looked dangerous on the counter, but lacked the stamina to sustain their effort in the final quarter.

Standout Players

Fazli was the clear man of the match, but fullback Driton Shabani also impressed with overlapping runs and defensive solidity. For the visitors, goalkeeper Marko Jovanovic made seven saves to keep his side in the contest.

Season Impact

Shkendija remains second in the table, three points behind Struga with two matches remaining. Akademija Pandev stays in mid-table but had its slim hopes of a European place further dented. The race for the title now comes down to Shkendija’s visit to Sileks next week and Struga’s trip to Vardar.