Primorac Triumphs Over Jug in Thrilling Euro Cup Opener

Primorac secured a hard-fought victory against Jug in the opening match of the Euro Cup round of 16, demonstrating teamwork and resilience. The team from Kotor managed to overturn an early deficit, rallying from a 0:4 scoreline late in the first quarter to ultimately win the match. This performance not only highlights their potential but also sets a strong foundation for the upcoming challenges.

The match took place in Podgorica, where Primorac showcased their determination. After falling behind, they turned the tide, leading 7:6 at the start of the third quarter. Despite facing setbacks, including falling behind again, they regained the lead and had a chance to extend their advantage further. Ultimately, they won with a score of 10:8, though they missed opportunities to secure a more comfortable margin.

Stefan Vidović, a key player for Primorac, reflected on the unusual circumstances leading up to the game. “We received the notification at 12:00 that we would play, and by 15:30 we were on our way to Podgorica,” he explained. “Initially, Jug seemed to adapt better, but even down 0:4, I believed we could turn it around. We managed to take the lead at 10:8 and had opportunities to extend it. Jug showed their quality, but in the end, we achieved a positive result.”

Vidović emphasized the importance of the victory in the context of the Euro Cup format. “This win is crucial, especially after coming back from a deficit against a strong opponent. It reflects our character and quality as a team,” he added.

The next challenge for Primorac comes swiftly, as they face Jadran on March 10, 2024, in a crucial Premier League derby. Both teams are in contention for a spot in the final four, with each boasting 25 points, just ahead of fourth-placed Novi Beograd. Vidović noted the intensity of the upcoming fixtures, highlighting the pressure to secure their place in the finals.

“This is a challenging period with a tight schedule of important matches,” he said. “Jadran is a strong team, and I expect an exciting game. Montenegro should take pride in hosting such a derby. Our goal from the start has been to reach the final four, and we are determined to achieve that.”

In a personal note, Vidović shared his experiences with the national team. After missing the early season due to family reasons, he played in Italy but has not received a call from the national coach, Dejan Savić. “I understand the situation and respect the team’s direction. My commitment to the national team has always been strong, and I am ready to contribute if needed,” he stated.

Despite the challenges, Vidović remains optimistic about his future contributions to both Primorac and potentially the national team in upcoming competitions. As the team prepares for their next match, the momentum from this victory will serve as motivation moving forward.