Maleski ahead of Struga–Vardar derby: we want the points to stay in Struga

Published: 16.08.2026 10:25. Today at 16:30 Struga Trim Lum host Vardar in the big derby of Round 3 in the top national league.

Matchday expectations and form

Both clubs have been among the title contenders in recent seasons: during the last four years the championship changed hands three times, with Struga lifting the trophy twice and Vardar once. The meeting in Struga is therefore seen as a key fixture early in the campaign.

Forward Hristijan Maleski — who scored the final goal in last season's encounters with Vardar — spoke to reporters ahead of the game and underlined his confidence in the squad. He said: "I hope it will be a quality and interesting match. A true derby from which we hope to extract the best and in the end the points will remain in Struga. We prepared all week for this match, we analysed the opponent in order to enter this game maximally prepared. I believe the whole team will be in the best shape so we can get a new three points this season in front of our fans."

Asked whether he could repeat last season's decisive contribution, Maleski replied: "I can say that I will give my maximum against Vardar, and if I score a goal, then without doubt that would be a reward for what I would show on the green pitch."

Statistically, this will be Maleski's seventh appearance against Vardar; to date he has scored only one goal in those matches. The outcome in Struga could shape the early title race as the season gains momentum.

Photo: press material from the event