Red Star turn 1–0 deficit into 2–1 win over Partizan in 180th Eternal Derby
Red Star recovered from an early setback and secured a 2–1 win after a VAR-awarded penalty converted by Mirko Ivanić.
Red Star Belgrade completed a comeback to beat Partizan Belgrade 2-1 in the 180th edition of the Eternal Derby on September 6, 2026.
Partizan shocked the hosts inside the opening minute when Že put them ahead, but Red Star quickly regrouped and levelled the score before taking the lead.
Bamba Dieng equalised in the 17th minute to restore parity and calm the home crowd.
Turning point: VAR and the penalty
In the 27th minute, young Macedonian international Matej Gaštarov was brought down in Partizan’s penalty area. After a VAR review the referee awarded a spot kick to Red Star.
Mirko Ivanić stepped up and converted the penalty, completing the turnaround and making it 2-1.
Gaštarov was one of Red Star’s standout performers, showing maturity in one of the region’s most intense fixtures and playing a key role in the hosts’ recovery.
Photo: FK Partizan (X)
