North Macedonia posts win and loss at Summer Cup in Ankara

North Macedonia split results on the opening days of the Summer Cup in Ankara, competing in Zone D with a three-man squad of Kristijan Janev, Erion Neziri and Matej Popov. After two ties the team recorded one win — a 3:0 victory over Montenegro — and one defeat, losing 0:3 to hosts Turkey.

Early loss to hosts, strong recovery vs Montenegro

In the first round Turkey swept the tie. Janev was beaten 2-0 in sets (6-3, 6-4) by Aren Bajbarsh, while Neziri lost 2-1 in sets (2-6, 6-1, 6-4) to Orhan Alp Akyol after taking the opening set. In doubles Neziri and Popov were defeated 2-0 (4-1, 5-3) by Bajbarsh and Akyol.

North Macedonia rebounded in the placement match for 5th–8th places, delivering a maximum 3:0 win over Montenegro. Janev overcame Luka Lukovac 2-0 in sets (6-1, 6-1), and Neziri beat Skender Katana 2-0 (7-6(4), 7-6(6)). In the doubles match Janev and Popov prevailed 2-1 (4-2, 3-5, 10-3 in points) against Lukovac and Katana.

The Macedonian pair now move on to play for fifth place. That match is scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, July 31, 2026, when they will face the Croatian team. The tournament final will pit Romania against Turkey.

The Summer Cup in Ankara continues as Zone D teams complete placement ties, with North Macedonia aiming to finish the event on a positive note in the fifth-place match.

Photo: mtftennis.mk