English:
Montenegro and Croatia Deliver Thrilling Match in Podgorica
Podgorica, November 17, 2025 – In an exciting World Cup qualifying match, Montenegro and Croatia clashed at the Gradski Stadion, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The match, refereed by Turkish official Halil Umut Meler, ended with a scoreline that reflected the intensity on the field.
Montenegro surprised early on, showcasing great efficiency. M. Osmajic opened the scoring in the 3rd minute with a goal, followed by N. Krstovic in the 17th minute, extending their lead. However, Croatia responded with a penalty converted by I. Perisic in the 37th minute, narrowing the gap before halftime. The first half was also characterized by a contested game, with several cautions for Montenegrin players.
In the second half, Croatia came out with renewed vigor. K. Jakic equalized in the 72nd minute and N. Vlasic sealed the match in the 87th minute, giving the victory to the Croatians. Despite Croatia’s dominance in possession (63% compared to Montenegro’s 37%) and a higher number of shots (17 versus 12), Montenegro displayed great combativeness. The match was characterized by a high number of fouls, with 17 committed by Montenegro and 16 by Croatia. The match, although in the group stage, made it clear that both teams will fight until the end for a place in the World Cup.
Substitutions croatia: at minute 46 D. Caleta-Car came in and M. Pongracic went out., at minute 46 J. Gvardiol came in and J. Stanisic went out., at minute 55 F. Ivanovic came in and A. Kramaric went out., at minute 59 I. Matanovic came in and P. Musa went out., at minute 78 I. Perisic came in and L. Modric went out.
Substitutions montenegro: at minute 46 S. Rubezic came in and M. Perovic went out., at minute 62 S. Jovetic came in and M. Vukotic went out., at minute 62 S. Loncar came in and V. Adzic went out., at minute 78 A. Bulatovic came in and M. Brnovic went out., at minute 78 M. Vesovic came in and N. Sipcic went out.
The teams lined up as follows:
Montenegro
Titulares:
Croatia
Titulares:
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