A Strong Offence is Sometimes the Worst Defence.
Osijek’s 2nd trial during the Austrian prep didn’t end well. Shkendija FC destroyed us 3-1 in Kumberg, using every single mistake Osijek had made in the second half, turning the tide. The Macedonians, in the spirit of Alexander the Great, conquered us with their unexpected quality.
An Expected State of Affairs in the First Half
Osijek started on the right foot, netting a lead by the 5th minute. After Lopa’s cross to Barac, the latter transported the ball into the net with a brilliant header. However, the enemy tightened their defenses quickly, increasing their possession despite not creating a salient chance to score. In the 29th minute, the equalizer was made. Lopa had lead the charge on the left in a counterattack on Shkendija’s loosened backline ranks, but the Ukrainian missed the ball in the center and was left without it, only for Emini reacting brilliantly in Osijek’s penalty area and scoring at last.
Mioc and Strkalj had their chances until the whistle, but the result was realistic to say the least for both sides.
Mistakes were Capitalized Upon
During the second part of the match, Zekic sent a new army to the field, while Shkendija kept their original soldiers on the battlefield until the 60th minute. Strkalj had a brilliant chance and Kamenar attempted to let loose a short while after, but the enemy goalkeeper defended ardently. Malenica reacted correctly when Emini made his attempt. Shkendija scored in the 56th minute for the lead after a brilliant solo-effort by Ibraimi, who showed his resolve and precision in the right chance.
The Goalkeeper, Rexhepi, was being tried when Bockaj let loose from a free kick and Grgic missed a great chance, too. The final score was decided in the 75th minute when Simunec caused a stir in the penalty area, which resulted in a penalty kick.
Unutilized Opportunities
In closing, we can conclude that Osijek were punished for their mistakes, ones that mustn’t be repeated. Osijek’s HQ will surely have additional criticisms pointed on the players, especially regarding the situation in which the possession was lost in the midfield and also, the loosening of the ranks, which enabled the opponents to pressure the backline.
Despite Osijek having had more opportunities, they were left unrealized. The attempts Osijek had made were neutralized by the driven Rexhepi, who guarded his post brilliantly.
