In the first game of the U19 EURO qualifiers the young lions gained a draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

photo by FFM: Georgije Jankulov (#2) fights for the ball

The U19 qualifiers for the upcoming 2020 EURO started today and Macedonia hosted Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Petar Miloshevski training center. Coach Goran Stanikj fielded his team in a 4-2-3-1 system with Andov on goal, Jankulov, Mitrevski, Gjurkovski and Dimovski (from R to L) in defense, Dauti and captain Elezi in defensive midfield, Nikolov in attacking midfield, Maksimov on the left and Muharem on the right wing, while Hajdari played at center-forward.

Coach Goran Stanikj; photo: FFM

The game started slowly as it was obvious that both teams were afraid to risk to much (out of 13 groups only the group winners and the second placed teams qualify for the Elite Round, while only the best third placed team moves to the Elite Round). Mainly the play took part in midfield without many serious chances. In the first half Bosnia had the best opportunity, but the shot hit only the wood.

The second half wasn’t much different. An equal game a little bit in favor for the hosts who like in the first half again stroke the wood. From the 70th minute Macedonia introduced Tasevski, Toshevski, Vosha and Novevski. Especially center-forward Toshevski brought some spark in the game, but not enough to score a goal. Eventually the game ended in a goalless draw.

In the other game of the first round England won 4:0 against Luxembourg. On Saturday Macedonia plays against England, whereas the last game is against Luxembourg on Tuesday.