MFL: A derby to enjoy — leaders Shkëndija host Struga Trim Lum
Shkëndija meet Struga Trim Lum at the Football Federation stadium in Skopje tonight (19:00); Shkëndija remain the only team with a perfect record.
Matchday four of the Macedonian First League closes with a high-profile derby in Skopje: Shkëndija and Struga Trim Lum meet at the Football Federation stadium ( kickoff 19:00) in what promises to be the most-watched fixture of the weekend.
Two teams in form, one high-stakes encounter
Shkëndija enter the game as the only side with a perfect record this season — three wins from three — while Struga Trim Lum sit on seven points after two victories and a draw. Both clubs arrive in good shape and with clear ambitions to build momentum toward the top of the table.
The tetovo club faces internal turbulence: in addition to injuries and suspensions that rule out five important players — Gaje, Gjorgievski, Freitas, Dimoski and Melichi — the club has also parted ways with sporting director Ardijan Cuculi. That change, combined with the personnel losses, is likely to affect the team environment in the hours before the derby.
Coach Artim Polozhani will have to reshuffle his plans, although he can welcome the return of Jovan Manev to the squad. Shkëndija will also have home support in the stadium for the first time this season, which could be a boost despite Struga's proven record against the Tetovo side in previous seasons.
Struga Trim Lum arrive with a calmer dressing room and a clear intention: to use derby occasions to prove they will again challenge for the title. The match referee appointed for the game is Stojanche Trpchevski.
The other Skopje derby earlier on matchday four pairs Vardar and Sileks at the Arena (kickoff 17:00), making today a packed day for domestic football fans.
Photo: press material from the event
