In the opening match of the third round, Arsimi recorded its first championship victory, defeating Bashkimi 1:0. Diego Contreras deserves the greatest credit for the important victory of the Gostivar side, as his goal secured the three points and announced positive performances by Arsimi in the PMFL.
The match was played in a balanced manner with few clear-cut chances, as both teams tried to capitalize on their opponent’s mistakes. Arsimi showed quality, but Bashkimi also played in an organized fashion, particularly in defence, managing to stop the hosts’ attacks.
As early as the 3rd minute, Ramadani threatened with a shot, while Dardishta tried with a header, but his attempt was inaccurate and the ball went wide of the post.
In the 22nd minute, following a long ball from Saiti, he found himself in a good position in front of goal, but his shot was inaccurate.
Five minutes later, in the 27th minute, Albin Ramadani unleashed an excellent shot, but the rebound fell to the young Kaba; however, Bashkimi’s defender intervened in time and prevented the danger.
In the 37th minute, following a corner kick, the ball reached Velija, who struck a powerful shot, but hit the crossbar.
In the second half, Bashkimi had a great opportunity to take the lead. In the 73rd minute, Ribeiro found Ensar Saiti with an excellent ball, leaving him one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Saiti shot, but goalkeeper Slijanoski reacted brilliantly and used his foot to prevent a certain goal.
When it seemed that the match would end goalless, the decisive moment arrived in the 82nd minute. Diego Contreras, with his second touch of the ball, unleashed a powerful shot and scored the winning goal for 1:0, securing an extremely important three points for Arsimi.
Bashkimi tried with its young players to find an equaliser until the very end, but failed to find the back of the Gostivar side’s net.
The Kumanovo team will seek its first victory in the next round, when it travels to Shtip to face Bregalnica.
Arsimi, meanwhile, will face a new challenge against Shkëndija from Arachinovo after this important victory, hoping to continue its positive results in the championship.
