Macedonian champions Shkendija start their European campaign in Belgrade, against Partizan.
Second round of Champions League, first leg, first match for Shkendija in Europe. And, really a tough one. They are visiting famous Serbian club and big favorite for this 2-legged match, Serbian champions from last season, Partizan.
Shkendija’s squad is more-or-less the same from last season, they have not made big changes. Best scorers and players, Hasani, Emini, Sali, Mustafi are all in the squad. Shkendija had their summer training camp in Austria, where they played two friendlies, losing to Košice 3:1 and a win against Politehnica Timişoara 3:2. This is definitely their biggest match in the history, as this is the first time Shkendija plays in Europe. After promoting to first league last season, they immediately and with huge domination won the first place in the first league.
Partizan are well-known opponent, which, according to Serbian football fans, did not made the smartest moves on the transfer market this season. Definitely not looking from financial level, but fans agree that it is possible team lost on quality. Nevertheless, they are huge favorites for the match and bookies seem to agree with that, offering odds of 1.10 for home win. Partizan played two friendly matches against Macedonian teams this summer, both ending with wins for the Serbian club (against Rabotnicki 5:1 and Metalurg 3:0).
Match is played on JNA Stadium, tomorrow at 20.45 and live TV coverage will be available on Serbian national television RTS.
Return leg is scheduled for a week from tomorrow, when Shkendija will host Partizan on National Arena Philip II of Macedon.