Montenegro’s national football team, under the guidance of coach Mirko Vucinic, demonstrated a commendable performance despite narrowly losing to Croatia, a formidable opponent, with a score of 2-3. This match, held in Podgorica, served as a crucial preparation for the upcoming 2026 UEFA Nations League and the team’s aspirations to secure a spot in the 2028 European Championship.
The match against Croatia featured a promising start for Montenegro, who took an early lead of 2-0 within the first 17 minutes. However, this strong showing raised questions about the team’s consistency. Vucinic’s squad has struggled to maintain such high performance levels in recent qualifiers, with notable setbacks including a 0-4 defeat to the Faro Islands and two significant losses to the Czech Republic.
Vucinic acknowledged the mixed emotions following the match. While he expressed pride in the team’s tenacity and skill displayed against a regular participant in major tournaments, he emphasized the need for a shift in mentality. “We must live for victories because that is the only way we can become true competitors,” he stated. His remarks reflect a deep understanding of the challenges facing the team, particularly in light of their fluctuating form over the past two years.
The match against Croatia not only showcased Montenegro’s potential but also highlighted the areas requiring improvement. Vucinic pointed out that the difference in results often lies in the details. “I am more sad than proud. We played well and fought hard, but details make the difference, and they were not on our side,” he noted. He reiterated that while praise is gratifying, the ultimate goal remains winning.
In the aftermath, Montenegro’s performance has positioned them as one of the seeded teams for the draw in the C division of the UEFA Nations League. This seeding suggests they will be viewed as favorites against their upcoming rivals, although Vucinic cautioned that actual performance on the pitch will determine their success.
Vucinic also addressed the importance of teamwork and commitment. He shared an anecdote from his time as a player, underscoring that success requires collective effort. “When I took over the national team, the situation was not the best, both in terms of results and morale. However, I accepted this role because I believe in their quality,” he remarked.
The coach’s commitment to instilling a winning mindset is evident as he aims to lead Montenegro through the remainder of the qualifiers and into the Nations League. He expressed gratitude towards the players for their dedication and willingness to adapt to his coaching style. “We must continue this way; that is key,” Vucinic emphasized.
As Montenegro prepares for its next challenges, the focus will be on fine-tuning their strategies and fostering a winning mentality. Vucinic’s leadership will be crucial as the team seeks to reclaim its competitive edge and regain the confidence of its supporters. The journey ahead is demanding, but the potential for success is palpable if the team can harness the spirit and skill displayed against Croatia.
