Ognjen Matanovic He was the key player in Serbia's 3-1 victory over Cyprus in the opening match of the U17 European Championship qualifiers, as he turned the game around with two late goals and secured an important three points for his national team. The young forward, who is on the Next Football Stars platform (Click here to view his profile), He once again confirmed his potential and drew attention as one of the most promising players in the Serbia U17 generation.
Serbia controlled the match from the very beginning
The Serbia U17 national team successfully started the second round of European Championship qualifiers with a 3-1 victory over Cyprus, and young forward Ognjen Matanović played a key role in the triumph.
Coach Igor Matić's team set the pace from the very start of the match. Serbia had more possession, controlled the midfield, and constantly tried to find space in the opponent's defense. Despite the initiative and several solid chances, the scores remained unchanged in the first half.
However, the impression was clear: Serbia was the better team on the field, and it was only a matter of time before that translated into a result.
Serbia's Lead and a Sudden Tie
In the continuation of the match, Serbia further increased the tempo of play, which soon yielded a concrete result.
Marinkovic paved the way to victory
In the 64th minute, Vojin Marinković managed to find the back of the net following a well-organized play, which finally crowned Serbia's dominance. The goal gave the team added confidence, and it seemed the game would enter a calmer final stretch.
However, soccer often brings unpredictable situations.
Cyprus is taking its chance
In the 81st minute, Cyprus equalized from practically their only serious chance. That goal brought nerves to the Serbian side and completely opened up the match in the final moments.
At that moment, it was clear that the details and individual quality would decide.
Matanović decides the game in three minutes
When it was needed most, Ognjen Matanović stepped up.
The striker on the Next Football Stars (NFS) platform came off the bench and showed why he is considered one of the most talented players of his generation.
Goal for 2-1
Just two minutes after the equalizer, in the 83rd minute, Matanović reacted in the right way. He took advantage of the opportunity in the penalty area and with a precise shot restored Serbia's lead.
That goal was a key psychological blow to the opponent, but also a huge boost for the Serbian team.
Second goal and confirmation of the victory
Then, in the 86th minute, came another moment of inspiration. Matanović received the ball on the edge of the penalty area, shook off his defender, and with a confident shot scored his second goal of the game.
Time made it 3-1 and definitively decided the winner.
His ability to make a difference in a short period of time clearly demonstrates the potential recognized by Next Football Stars, a platform focused on the development and promotion of young soccer players.
A red card as the only blemish
Although he was the hero of the match, Matanović did not finish the game in an ideal way.
In stoppage time, he received a red card for a reckless tackle, which means he will likely miss the next match. However, that detail does not diminish his key role in this victory.
Team's reaction showed character
After the match, coach Igor Matić emphasized that he was pleased with his players' approach and that Serbia dominated for most of the game.
He particularly emphasized the team's reaction after conceding a goal, which speaks to the mental strength and character of this generation. It is precisely these kinds of matches that often define teams with the potential to make a breakthrough on the big stage.
NFS in Focus: Matanović as a Player for the Future
Ognjen Matanović's performance once again confirms the importance of platforms like Next Football Stars, which track the development of young players and provide them with additional visibility.
His characteristics, goal-scoring instinct, off-the-ball movement, composure in the final third, and ability to decide a game set him apart as one of the most interesting strikers of his generation.
If he continues with performances like this, there is no doubt that he will very quickly attract the attention of clubs outside the region.
The victory against Cyprus represents an important step for Serbia in the qualifiers, but also another confirmation that this generation possesses quality.
Ognjen Matanović was the center of attention, showing in just a few minutes how much of a deciding factor he can be.
Judging by this match, Serbia has a player who could play a significant role in the future, and his name is worth remembering.
