The big Derby of Macedonia, Vardar against Pelister, is upcoming and we have talked to Pelister’s captain Dimche Ristevski about his views of the match.

Vardar against Pelister after one year break, on the National Arena Philip II of Macedon, on Sunday at 19.00 CET – a football holiday! Last week we have started a new section on our website – interviewing one footballer from both teams that feature in the derby of the round. We have started with Huseini of Shkendija and Georgeivski from Teteks. For this round, the choice for the derby match was easy – Vardar against Pelister. However, we were not able to provide statement from a Vardar player as their club has instructed the players not to talk to the media. That is why we are only sharing Dimche Ristevski‘s opinions before the huge derby.

What is the feeling to play in such an important derby?
DR: It is a big honor, a big privilege but a big obligation as well. The fans expect the most of this matches and it is tough to point out a favorite before the match as everything is possible in such matches.

Like in every derby match, your team will strive for victory on Sunday. Why do you think that you can defeat your opponents? What are your advantages and what are the weak points of your opponents?
DR: Both Vardar and Pelister have good teams but also weak sides. We will be looking to exploit those, but in these matches small details might be decisive. Moment of inspiration, sports luck, a mistake… everything can happen but we sure like to return to Bitola undefeated and we wouldn’t mind three points in the bag.

What is more important in this clash, current form or motivation?
DR: This match is of utter importance, as I have already talked. Form probably goes out of the window as the motivation rises and we know that. This will be my 10th derby, but interestingly, only the first in the jersey of my Pelister. I remember every one of them so far, but I hope for the first win with Pelister.

Which player might create the biggest threat to Pelister’s goal?
DR: Vardar has very good team at the moment and many players can score. I personally know many of them as I have played for Vardar in the past. Jovan Kostovski for example is a top class striker and we should be looking to stop him in order to get anything out of this match.