Crvena Zvezda 1–2 Novi Pazar | Mozzart Bet Superliga – 10 May 2026

A stunning upset occurred in the Serbian Mozzart Bet Superliga on 10 May 2026 as Novi Pazar defeated league leaders Crvena Zvezda 2‑1 at the Stadion Rajko Mitić. The result ended Zvezda’s unbeaten home run and breathed new life into the title race.

Match Overview

Crvena Zvezda started as overwhelming favourites, and they took the lead in the 17th minute through a well‑struck volley from the edge of the box. However, Novi Pazar equalised just before the half‑hour mark with a clinical counter‑attack. The visitors then stunned the home crowd with a second goal early in the second half, a deflected free‑kick that wrong‑footed the goalkeeper. Zvezda pushed for an equaliser but found the Novi Pazar defence and goalkeeper in inspired form.

Key Moments

• 17' – Goal Zvezda: A cross from the left was met on the volley by the midfielder, giving the keeper no chance.
• 27' – Goal Novi Pazar: A rapid break saw the striker slide the ball under the onrushing goalkeeper.
• 52' – Goal Novi Pazar: A free‑kick from 25 yards took a big deflection and nestled into the net.
• 70' – Zvezda penalty saved: The usually reliable penalty taker saw his spot‑kick palmed away by the Novi Pazar keeper.
• 84' – Zvezda disallowed goal: A header was ruled out for a push in the build‑up.

Tactical Story

Crvena Zvezda dominated possession (68%) but were caught out by Novi Pazar’s disciplined counter‑attacking setup. The visitors defended deep in a 5‑4‑1 block, absorbing pressure and then releasing quick runners. Zvezda’s full‑backs pushed high, leaving space behind which Novi Pazar exploited mercilessly. The sending‑off of a Zvezda midfielder in the 72nd minute further hampered their comeback efforts.

Standout Players

• Novi Pazar: The goalkeeper was the hero, making eight saves including a penalty, earning a 9/10 rating.
• Zvezda: The central defender scored the opening goal but was caught out defensively on the counter.

Impact on the Standings

Despite the defeat, Crvena Zvezda still lead the Superliga by four points with five matches remaining. However, the loss narrows the margin and gives hope to second‑placed Partizan. Novi Pazar moved up to 7th place, edging closer to the European qualification spots.