The football spring in Montenegro kicks off tomorrow (Saturday), with the highly anticipated derby matchup – Budućnost vs. Sutjeska at 18:00 under Gorica.

This isn’t a title race – Budućnost is firmly in first place with a 21-point lead over Sutjeska, who is currently in seventh. Sutjeska is eager to leverage the fresh changes at Bistrica (new management) and an altered roster in hopes of competing for a spot in Europe.

Budućnost carries a unique motivation, albeit a bit unorthodox – to redeem themselves after the Cup upset and the unexpected defeat to second-league team Iskra, which has marred their season during the club’s centennial celebrations.

“It was undoubtedly a harsh setback for our club. Our objective this season was to secure a double crown, and we approached every match with that mindset. Cup matches are notoriously unpredictable, and we learned that the hard way. Sometimes, you just have an off day. Even five days later, we’re still processing the outcome. While we focus on the upcoming game against Sutjeska, I must admit that the defeat to Iskra has shaken us quite a bit. We expected to make a deep run in the Cup, which was one of our main goals this season,” expressed Budućnost coach Ivan Brnović.

He continued, sharing further insights.

“We didn’t practice penalties, and that falls on all of us on the coaching staff. We didn’t prepare adequately for the game in its entirety. We didn’t foresee the need for penalties, but we, as the coaching staff, should prepare for every possible scenario. It’s a clear oversight on our part, one that serves as a significant learning experience for me. The most disappointing aspect is that the club is bearing the consequences of our mistake.”

Your next challenge is Sutjeska, perhaps at the most difficult moment, or maybe it’s advantageous, depending on your perspective…

“Sutjeska has undoubtedly strengthened significantly across all facets of the team. I truly believe they rank among the top two or three teams in terms of overall quality, and the championship, results, and on-field performances will reflect that.”

“Although Sutjeska hasn’t yet showcased their full potential, I’m confident they will improve as this part of the season progresses. They now possess experience while retaining the core of their team.”

In any case, it poses a substantial test for his squad.

“This match will highlight how prepared this team and the club as a whole are to recover from what I can describe as a debacle; anything short of our victory would be seen as a sensational downfall. We did not underestimate Iskra; our scouts observed their friendly match against Sutjeska, and we prepared for them thoroughly. However, we seemed to unconsciously overlook them. Personally, I expected we would score a goal or two and that getting on the board was merely a matter of time, as it often is. We faced a very organized opponent, particularly in defense. As time progressed, they grew in confidence and tenacity, while we became increasingly disoriented. As I told the players, I accept full responsibility for this outcome, and I am solely to blame for this setback. Nevertheless, we must move forward. I firmly believe that, despite its significance, this one match cannot overshadow all the accomplishments this team has achieved since June,” concluded Brnović.

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