TETOVO, North Macedonia (Interstat) — In a stunning reversal of pregame projections, visiting Pelister secured a 2-1 victory over Shkendija in a First League match on Saturday at Ecolog Arena, handing the favored hosts a season-opening defeat.

The result defied statistical models, which heavily favored Shkendija. Interstat’s ELO system had given Shkendija an 85 percent probability to win, while its game simulator had projected a higher-scoring 3-2 win for Pelister. The actual match, however, saw Pelister execute a disciplined defensive plan after seizing an early advantage.

Pelister established control with two quick first-half goals. Stefan Spirovski opened the scoring in the 37th minute, breaking through Shkendija’s defense to give the visitors a lead. The advantage doubled just six minutes later when Besart Ibraimi found the net in the 43rd minute, sending Pelister into halftime with a commanding 2-0 lead and silencing the home supporters.

Shkendija, expected to dominate possession and chances, struggled to break down a resolute Pelister side for much of the match. The home team’s efforts finally produced a goal in second-half stoppage time, with Vildan Kerim scoring in the 90+2 minute. The late strike provided a consolation but came too late to alter the outcome, as Pelister saw out the remaining moments to claim all three points.

The victory marks a perfect start to Pelister’s First League campaign, improving its record to one win and no losses in the domestic top flight. Across all competitions this season, Pelister now holds a record of two wins and zero losses. The loss is a damaging one for Shkendija, which begins its league season with zero wins and one loss, mirroring its overall competitive record.

The match was part of the North Macedonian First League schedule. Pelister will look to maintain its momentum in its next contest, a fixture against Aresimi in the Second League on Saturday, Apr. 4, 2026. Shkendija, meanwhile, must regroup after a performance and result that fell far short of pregame expectations.