Shkendija face Struga TL in top Macedonian derby on November 7

Tomorrow's headline fixture in the Macedonian First Football League sees leaders Shkendija travel to face Struga TL in a match scheduled for November 7, 2026 at 12:00. The clash — part of round 13 of the domestic championship — has drawn the spotlight after a week of build-up in both towns.

Shkendija forward warns minor details can decide a derby

Almir Krieziu, Shkendija's attacking player, said the derby produces its own energy and that mental preparation matters as much as physical readiness.

“Really, matches like this are special for every player. We are eager to play. The motivation comes naturally, given that it is a duel with a lot at stake between the first-placed and the second-placed team, so I believe motivation is built into the match itself. I think that, in addition to physical preparation, psychological preparation is also of fundamental importance. A derby can be decided by the smallest details, so we must stay motivated and give our maximum until the very end,” Krieziu said.

He added that supporters should expect an entertaining game and noted the balance between the two sides: “I think this will be a great spectacle for the fans. We are the leaders in the league, but Struga has shown very strong performances. We have already beaten them once this season, but Struga has been playing well recently — they are in good form — so I expect a really excellent match. It is worth noting that the two teams meeting are the ones who have shown the most during this part of the championship, and we must give everything to justify the epithet ‘derby’.”

The meeting between the top two adds extra weight to the weekend fixture list and brings high expectations for a competitive and tense encounter at kickoff on November 7 at 12:00 local time.

Photo: press material from the event