Dečić vs Buducnost Podgorica - First League

The history between Dečić and Buducnost Podgorica lends this First League fixture an extra layer of spice, and when the two walk out at the home ground on April 26, 2026, recent encounters will be on everyone's mind. Catch up with all the action from Chelsea's pre-season clash with AC Milan.

Form and standings can only tell part of the story when Dečić and Buducnost Podgorica cross paths in the First League, and pride alone should guarantee a contest. The hosts have been steady if unspectacular, DDL in their last five reflecting a win rate of 44.44%. Buducnost Podgorica have travelled reasonably well, WDLLW over their last five with a season win rate of 44.44%. One side has leaned on a miserly defence, the other on a free-scoring attack, and the meeting of those contrasting strengths promises an intriguing tactical subtext. The Reds continue to retain an interest in the midfielder Manu Kone and left-back Lewis Hall, while one remaining high-profile departure this summer could come in the form of Marcus Rashford.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Dečić favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Buducnost Podgorica are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. Rico Lewis played at right-back, but when City were in possession he tucked infield and supported the midfield pairing of Mateo Kovacic and Reijnders.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. The midfielder set up Riccardo Calafiori for Arsenal's opener in their dominant Community Shield win over Manchester City with a superb assist.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. Whatever the outcome, the First League fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".