On Independence Day, Lovćen Aims for Double Crown While Budva Riviera Seeks Cup Defense
Lovćen lifted the cup for the Montenegrin champion prior to the semi-final clash of the Cup, Photo: RSCG
The current double crown champion, Budva, is set to defend the cup – Independence Day traditionally marks the handball Montenegrin Cup final, featuring Lovćen and the Budva Riviera.
The team from Cetinje first hoisted the cup after securing their 11th championship title at the “Bemax Arena,” and shortly after, they triumphed over Budućnost in the semi-finals with a score of 33:24, while the Riviera overcame Rudar with a 24:18 victory.
Consequently, Lovćen will vie for their 18th Cup title tomorrow (Tuesday, 13:00), while Budva seeks to clinch their second consecutive title and their second since the restoration of independence.
Filip Popović’s squad settled the semi-final outcome by halftime, leading 17:11; Ivan Perišić contributed seven goals, while Milorad Bakić added six goals to secure their win. Emir Đulović scored seven goals for the Podgorica team.
The Budva Riviera easily took down Rudar 24:18, with a crucial moment coming when the score was tied at 4:4, after which they surged ahead with a 5:0 run to lead 9:5. They finished the first half at 11:8, and by the 41st minute, they enjoyed a six-goal advantage (16:10).
Radivoje Đođić led Budva Riviera with seven goals, while goalkeeper Lazar Pešić made nine key saves.
At Pljevljak, Nemanja Matović scored five goals, and Dejan Čolović recorded 11 saves.
Before the clash between Lovćen and Budva Riviera, the women’s teams will also compete for the Cup trophy, with Budućnost Bemax set to face Rudar in the final.
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