FC Struga 0-1 FC Vardar Skopje | North Macedonia First Football League | 15 May 2026

League leaders FC Struga stumbled at home as FC Vardar Skopje produced a brilliant away performance to win 1-0 at the Gradska Plaža Stadium. The result means Struga’s lead at the top is now cut to a single point with only two games left, throwing the title race wide open.

Match Overview

Vardar came into the match having lost three of their previous four games, but they showed remarkable resilience. A disciplined defensive display and a moment of individual brilliance from forward Filip Petkovski in the 23rd minute proved decisive. Struga pushed hard for an equalizer but found Vardar’s goalkeeper in inspired form.

Key Moments

• 23' Goal – Filip Petkovski (Vardar): Controlled a long ball on his chest, turned his marker, and fired a low shot into the bottom corner.
• 55' Post – Struga's Muhamed Demiri: A curling free-kick struck the woodwork with the keeper beaten.
• 72' Red Card – Vardar's Boban Nikolovski: Received a second yellow for a tactical foul, but Vardar held firm with ten men.

Tactical Story

Struga’s usual 4-3-3 could not break down a Vardar side that defended with five across the back after taking the lead. The visitors sat deep and dared Struga to cross, but the home side’s forwards were well marshalled. Vardar’s ability to absorb pressure even after going a man down showed tremendous organization.

Standout Players

Vardar goalkeeper Kostadin Blazhevski was outstanding, making eight saves including a particularly acrobatic stop in the 85th minute. Petkovski’s goal and work rate earned him the plaudits. For Struga, midfielder Bajram Jemini was the most creative outlet but could not find the final ball.

Season Impact

Struga’s lead is down to one point over Shkendija Tetovo, who won earlier in the round. Vardar’s victory moves them into fourth place, keeping their hopes of a European qualification alive. The title race now goes to the wire with Struga visiting Vardar’s fierce rivals Rabotnički next week.