Montenegro’s Football Team Faces Humiliation in Defeat

The Montenegro National Football Team suffered a crushing defeat against the Faroe Islands, losing 4-0 in a qualification match on November 19, 2023. This humiliation has raised serious questions about the team’s future and its ability to compete at an international level. The loss marks a significant low point, with the national team now languishing at the bottom of the FIFA rankings.

This latest setback comes just months after Montenegro narrowly defeated the same opponent 1-0 in March. The team’s performance at Torsvollur Stadium has ignited discussions about the long-term viability of the current coaching structure under new head coach Mirko Vučić, who succeeded Robert Prosinečki. The defeat not only reflects poorly on the team’s strategy but also raises concerns about player morale and future prospects.

After the match, captain Stefan Savić acknowledged the team’s struggles. “We need to work much harder,” he stated, emphasizing that the players must confront the reality of their situation. He noted, “The pitch is our only measure; we can talk about being first in the group, but that is unrealistic given our current performance.” Montenegro has now gone nine matches without a victory, a streak that underscores the urgency for an overhaul within the team.

The game highlighted significant tactical errors, particularly Vučić’s decision to maintain the same starting eleven throughout the first half, despite being down 2-0. Many observers questioned the choice of a 3-5-2 formation, especially in the absence of key players like Adam Marušić. The defensive setup was also found wanting, especially during set pieces, leading to easy opportunities for the Faroe Islands.

The defeat has prompted calls for a comprehensive reevaluation of the team’s dynamics. Players like Marko Šimun expressed the need for a reset, stating, “We must start from zero and truly understand where we stand.” The sentiment resonates within the squad, as players recognize the necessity for significant changes and a fresh approach to the game.

Montenegro’s national team now faces a daunting schedule ahead. They are set to play a friendly match against Liechtenstein on November 27, followed by a crucial qualifier against Gibraltar. If the team fails to secure victories in these encounters, they may face deeper challenges, potentially ending the qualification campaign in a disappointing fourth place in their group.

The current trajectory is alarming, as Montenegro’s defeat to the Faroe Islands represents one of the most significant losses in the team’s history. Previous heavy defeats include a 7-0 loss to England in 2019 and several 4-0 losses to other nations. This pattern of underperformance raises critical questions about the strategic direction and future of Montenegrin football.

As the team looks to rebuild, both players and management must address the underlying issues that have led to this decline. The upcoming matches will be crucial to not only halt the losing streak but also restore confidence in the team and its supporters. With aspirations to qualify for the UEFA European Championship in 2028, the path forward demands a unified effort towards improvement and rejuvenation.