Tuzana Retain Cup Title Hopes with Quarterfinal Victory

Quarterfinal matches of the Montenegrin Cup revealed once again the tight competition in the country’s football scene. On March 15, 2024, Tuzana secured their place in the semifinals by defeating Dečić 2-1 in a dramatic encounter. The result underscores how small details and home advantage play significant roles in determining match outcomes.

In their last league encounter just four days prior, Sutjeska had experienced a strong performance against Dečić, winning 3-1. However, the tables turned in the Cup match as Dečić managed to outplay Sutjeska, showcasing the unpredictable nature of local football. Other notable results included Mornar’s dominant 4-0 victory against Iskra and Jezero’s 2-0 win over Mladost.

The most gripping moment of the quarterfinals occurred at the Petrovac ground, where the home team surrendered a two-goal lead, losing the match in a penalty shootout to Otrant Olimpik. The second division team made history by reaching the semifinals, marking their most significant achievement in a competitive tournament. The match ended 2-2 in regular time, with Otrant triumphing 5-4 in the penalty shootout.

Tuzana cleared their path to defend the Cup title by eliminating both Buducnost and Sutjeska in earlier rounds. With two contenders removed from the competition, the stage is set for Tuzana to emerge as the primary favorite for the trophy. The team’s latest performance at Arena Besi was characterized by strong chances created, particularly in the second half.

In the 56th minute, Nikola Braunovic opened the scoring with a header after a corner kick, followed by Petar Pavlićević sealing the victory in the 85th with a well-placed finish. Although Sutjeska managed to reduce the deficit in stoppage time through Ivan Vukčević, it was too late to change the outcome.

Pavlićević, who joined the match as a substitute in the 76th minute, expressed his joy at contributing to the team’s success. “We played with the right approach, created many chances, and took two of them. The goal came at the right moment, and I am happy to have played a part in this victory,” he stated in an interview following the match.

Despite their exit from the Cup, Sutjeska remains focused on the league championship, where they lead the standings. Head coach Dejan Jelenić acknowledged their performance, saying, “Dečić deserved to advance. We did not replicate our decision-making process from the previous match. It’s important for us to learn and maintain our professionalism.”

Meanwhile, Otrant Olimpik’s journey has been one of remarkable achievement. The club, based in Ulcinj, reached the semifinals of the Cup for the first time, and coach Nedjeljko Vlahović expressed pride in the team’s performance. “We started poorly, conceding two early goals, but showed resilience by fighting back to equalize. The penalty shootout was nerve-wracking, but our goalkeeper made a crucial save that allowed us to progress.”

Otrant Olimpik’s primary goal remains promotion back to the elite of Montenegrin football, and they currently sit at the top of the Second League standings. Vlahović is keenly aware of the challenges ahead, particularly with an upcoming derby against second-placed Kom. “We are prepared to give our best and ensure we maintain our lead in the table,” he concluded.

As the competition continues, the focus now shifts to the semifinals, where Tuzana and Otrant Olimpik will seek to advance further in their respective quests for the Cup.