After two losses in the final over the last four years, the footballers of Dečić Admiralbet seized their opportunity, triumphing in the Montenegrin Cup for the 2024/25 season.

During the final match held at the City Stadium in Nikšić, Nenad Brnović’s squad showcased their superiority, defeating Mornar by a narrow margin of 1:0. Mornar, once again, must wait for another chance at their first cup title.

The only goal came from Asmir Kajević in the 23rd minute, where the former occasional Montenegrin national team player deftly outmaneuvered Baran goalie Miloš Dragojević in a one-on-one encounter.

Dečić is set to head into the Conference League qualifiers after an impressive European campaign last year, potentially becoming a seed in the first round draw.

Though touted as the “most beautiful match” in Montenegrin football, the game lacked aesthetic appeal.

Dečić appeared more competitive in the first half, as in addition to the goal stemming from a defensive error by Mornar, Nenad Brnović’s team struck the crossbar thanks to Brazilian Čagas. The closest Mornar came to leveling was in stoppage time of the first half when a shot from right-back Nikola Vuković narrowly missed the target.

As the second half progressed, Mornar was determined to dominate, with Dečić shifting to a defensive strategy to protect their 1:0 lead.

The Barani had only one notable chance, which again featured Vuković. He attempted a “scissors” kick but had his shot blocked.

Last summer, Mornar made a name for themselves on the European stage and was hopeful for another international appearance.

Game over!

After facing defeat in two finals in the last four years, Dečić Admiralbet finally claimed the Cup title on their third attempt, winning 1:0 against Mornar, who must seek another opportunity.

The crucial goal came from Asmir Kajević in the 23rd minute.

There will be five minutes of stoppage time.

Veteran Marko Ćetković has entered the match as the last strategic move by Zoran Đurašković.

Dečić currently leads Mornar 1:0 with mere minutes remaining.

Mornar is increasing the pressure while Dečić focuses on defense.

Veljko Batrović is now on the field in place of Marko Vučić.

Vuković from Mornar attempted a “scissors” kick following a corner, but the effort was blocked.

Dečić has made several threatening moves as the second half begins. Mornar, with nothing left to lose, is expected to respond aggressively.

At halftime, Dečić leads Mornar 1:0.

Mornar almost found the equalizer in stoppage time of the first half, as Vuković’s sharp shot went just wide.

Tuzan nearly scored a second goal in the 40th minute. Brazilian Augusto Chagas unleashed a superb shot from 25 meters that hit the crossbar.

Dečić has maintained the lead since the 23rd minute.

The goal originated from a throw-in by Drešaj on the right. A defensive lapse from Mornar allowed Asmir Kajević to elegantly lift the ball over the advancing Dragojević.

Mornar attempted to respond in the ninth minute, but Balša Sekulić’s shot went just wide.

In the fifth minute, Dečić’s Brazilian Chagas made the first significant attempt at goal, striking the crossbar from the edge of the penalty area.

The main referee, Miloš Bošković, has signaled the start of the Cup final match.

Here are the team lineups:

Dečić and Mornar are set to face off for the Cup trophy and a spot in Europe at 20:00, marking their first encounter at the stadium near Bistrica.

This is the third Cup final for the Tuzans in independent Montenegro, having lost the prior two against Buducnost.

Mornar returns to the finals for the first time since 2006.