FMP vs. Zvezda: Red-and-Whites Look to Build Momentum as Panthers Chase End to 44-Game Losing Streak
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- Ahead of the clash against FMP, Ibon Navarro shared his expectations
- The red-and-whites provided an injury update on their squad before the game
FMP – Crvena Zvezda (Tip-off at 18:00 CET)
Match Preview
The ABA League season is finally underway following games on Friday and Saturday, and now it is time for the first all-Serbian clash – FMP host Crvena Zvezda, hoping to snap a staggering 44-game losing streak against the Belgrade powerhouse.
Following a dispute between the league and the referees that shook the Adriatic competition, the ABA League got underway a week behind schedule. As a result, FMP's trip to Slovan Bratislava was postponed, while Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet were originally scheduled to face Borac in Čačak.
With the issues resolved, Zvezda are set to play their third match of the week after a double-round EuroLeague fixture, where they were defeated by Hapoel Tel Aviv before bouncing back against Anadolu Efes.
Coaches' Comments
FMP head coach Saša Nikitović emphasized that his squad faces the toughest possible challenge to open their campaign.
"We are starting the season after an extended pre-season, which was very much needed given that we have eight new players on the roster. We face the toughest possible opponent in our first competitive game. We must execute what we do best, and do it even better than usual. That is essential if we want to compete with Crvena Zvezda, though it is hard to predict how well we will fare since this is our opening competitive match of the season." Saša Nikitović
Red-and-whites head coach Ibon Navarro also shared his thoughts ahead of the encounter.
"We know they are a very tough team, especially on their home court. They have experienced players who will surely find extra motivation for a game like this. On our side, we will look to get some players into their rhythm and continue to improve from game to game." Ibon Navarro
Zvezda Without Motley, but Key Trio Returns
The club issued an injury update to their fans on Saturday.
While Johnathan Motley picked up an injury against Efes, Nikola Đurišić, Dejan Davidovac, and Patrick Baldwin have all returned to full team practice.
"Following detailed diagnostic tests, the KK Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet medical staff confirmed that center Johnathan Motley suffered a quadriceps injury during Thursday night's game against Anadolu Efes. The injury requires rest and ongoing treatment, and the club's medical team is already implementing the necessary rehabilitation steps for our center. The public will be updated on Johnathan Motley's return in due course. Nikola Đurišić, Dejan Davidovac, and Patrick Baldwin returned to 5-on-5 team practice on Saturday and are at coach Navarro's disposal going forward." KK Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet
How to Watch FMP vs. Zvezda Live
The game in Železnik tips off at 18:00 CET, with live coverage broadcast on Arena Sport Premium 1, while fans can also follow the action through Sportal's dedicated live blog.
ABA League Group A Standings
VIDEO Zvezda Dig Deep to Defeat Anadolu Efes at the Arena!
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