Following two consecutive wins (2-1 against Skopje and a convincing 5-0 victory over Konjari in the Cup), there is genuine euphoria and optimism in the Bashkimi camp ahead of the big derby against the reigning champions, Vardar.
The Kumanovo side defeated Skopje away last week for their first triumph of the season, and confirmed that the crisis is behind them with a five-goal haul against third-league side BVB Konjari, providing the perfect prelude to today’s clash with the Skopje „red-and-blacks“. Luis Ribeiro is in excellent form and wants Bashkimi’s positive run to continue today in Kumanovo.
„Clashes against Vardar always bring a special motivation and emotion. We want full stands and another victory to extend the run. I invite all the fans to give us a boost, so that we can celebrate together at the end,“ Ribeiro said.
Although tradition favours the “red-and-blacks”, who have 11 wins in their previous 18 meetings, compared with four for Bashkimi and three draws, the Kumanovo side are ready to fight until the final whistle.
The Bashkimi-Vardar duel will be played today at the City Stadium in Kumanovo, kicking off at 16:00, with Aleksandar Grujoski appointed as the referee.
