The second league season is still ongoing, but one significant question has emerged: OFK Mladost Lob.bet is making its return to the Meridianbet 1st Montenegrin Football League.

And they are doing so in style—dominantly and convincingly, clinching their spot four rounds early. This success is attributed not only to the team but also to their visionary coach, Nedeljko Vlahović.

WE NEVER EXPECTED THE RACE TO END THIS EARLY

A swift return to the elite league was the primary aim after last year’s playoff setback against Otranto, but even Vlahović didn’t anticipate achieving this so soon, and with such a significant points margin:

– Our aim was a quick return, aiming initially for the playoffs, but we targeted direct qualification from the very beginning. We didn’t expect to wrap everything up a few rounds before the end, especially since Rudar seemed strong midway through the season. Nevertheless, we succeeded, and in a dominant fashion—says Vlahović.

What was the secret? The teamwork, the atmosphere, and the belief, as noted by the former midfielder of Budućnost, Rudar, and numerous Montenegrin clubs.

– The decision came from the entire group. We had a solid team in every respect. The atmosphere among the players was fantastic, and the relationship with the coaching staff and management fostered the right working conditions. These are the cornerstones of any success. The statistics speak volumes—only two defeats, 17 matches without conceding a goal, the league’s top scorer Igor Vukčević, goalkeeper Petar Radulović, defenders Radula Živković and Ljubomir Pejović… This is a collective success, not just the achievement of individuals.

A FEW ADDED REINFORCEMENTS WILL ALLOW US TO COMPETE WITH ANYONE

While celebrations are still underway, plans are already progressing at the “DG Arena,” and they are ambitious.

– It’s clear that our main objective is to stay afloat in the first season back, but I have bigger aspirations. This club is young, yet I believe it’s ready for more. We’ve shown that in previous matchups with higher league teams. With a few experienced reinforcements, this team can compete against anyone. Maintaining the backbone of the current squad is crucial. The difference between fighting for survival and aiming for a spot in Europe can be minimal—claims the 41-year-old coach, hinting at a bold and aggressive approach aimed at higher aspirations in the elite.

For Vlahović, this achievement is more than a mere result—it represents validation of a coaching journey that, though still in its infancy, has experienced both peaks and valleys.

– This marks a significant step in my career. Honestly, being relegated from the First League with Rudar last season was a tough experience. It took time to bounce back. This serves as motivation, a signal that I’m heading in the right direction. I don’t want the next season to merely revolve around survival; I want us to make an impact—concludes Vlahović.

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