Buducnost faced a disastrous exit from the Cup, suffering a defeat to the sixth-placed team in the Second League on neutral ground, marking the end of their most realistic competitive goal planned for the spring.

The Podgorica team stands on the brink of securing the title, holding a 13-point lead over the second-place team. Their sole aspiration in the second half was to clinch the Double Crown Cup as a celebration of the club’s long-standing existence.

Despite the arrival of spring, Ivan Brnović’s team has been relegated.

The young players of Iskra executed their penalties with the confidence akin to Real Madrid, showcasing a variety of styles—including “panenka” shots, strikes under the bar, and into the net, along with two impressive saves from 17-year-old Tomaš Đurović.

“Honestly, I can’t find the words. I need to watch the game at least five more times to truly understand what transpired. My initial impression is that we were nowhere near the level of performance that defined us during the autumn, as well as in the preparation period, and that we faced an opponent determined to defend their goal at all costs,” Budućnost coach Ivan Brnović shared on the club’s website.

What comes next…

“We lost concentration in the final moments, despite having numerous opportunities, particularly in the second half. The opponent remained tough and combative throughout the match, demonstrating great defensive organization. We seemed confused and slow; perhaps fatigue set in, which shouldn’t have been the case, but it’s a possibility. In any event, there was a sobering moment—a header that hit the wall unexpectedly. Penalties are a mix of luck and skill, and ultimately, I congratulate Iskra on reaching the semifinals,” Brnović emphasized.

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