North Macedonia U16 beaten 1-5 by Russia in Turnovo
North Macedonia U-16, led by Goran Stankovski, were beaten 1:5 by Russia at Kukush stadium on October 3, 2026.
On October 3, 2026, at Kukush stadium in Turnovo, North Macedonia's U-16 national team, coached by Goran Stankovski, suffered a heavy 1:5 defeat in a friendly against Russia.
Match details
Nezri scored North Macedonia's lone goal. Russia's goals came from Rodionov, Kalozhni, Bestaev (who scored twice) and Olkhovski, producing the final 1–5 scoreline.
The loss continued a string of disappointing results for the young national sides, raising fresh questions about development and preparation at this age level.
Stankovski's team struggled to contain Russia throughout the match and conceded multiple times from open play. The margin emphasised the gap between the two sides on the day.
“Defeats and only defeats... until when?” the coverage asked, reflecting fatigue among supporters who rarely get to celebrate draws, let alone wins.
Earlier, Aris and Dimitrijevic had also started the season with defeats in the Greek championship, deepening the sense of concern around Macedonian players competing abroad.
Photo: press material from the event
