A major match-fixing scandal has shaken North Macedonian football following a controversial game in the Second Division between FK Kozuf and FK Bashkimi. The match ended in a 2–1 win for visiting team Bashkimi, but the final goal raised serious concerns across the football community.
Bashkimi’s winning goal, scored deep into stoppage time, stunned fans and officials alike. Footage showed FK Kozuf players standing still and offering no resistance as Bashkimi scored easily. The incident sparked outrage and led to accusations of match-fixing.
At the time of the match, Bashkimi needed a win to stay in the race for promotion to the First Division. With two rounds remaining, they were in third place with 60 points—three behind leaders Macedonia Gorche Petrov and one behind second-placed Arsimi. The top two teams qualify directly for the First Division, while the third-place team enters a playoff.
In response to the suspicious goal, the Football Federation of North Macedonia (FFM) released a strong statement, warning both clubs that disciplinary action may follow.
“The match between FK Kozuf and FK Bashkimi was watched with deep disappointment,” the FFM said. “What happened on the field was an insult to football and fair play. Such behavior is unacceptable.”
The FFM promised swift action after receiving official match reports. “There will be no protected individuals. Anyone who violated the integrity of the competition will be held accountable,” the statement added. The federation said it is committed to fair competition and plans to work with law enforcement to investigate the incident thoroughly.
The FFM leadership vowed to eliminate corrupt practices and restore faith in Macedonian football. “It’s time to finally clean up the garbage that has poisoned Macedonian football for years,” the statement concluded.
North Macedonia’s Minister of Sports, Borko Ristovski, also addressed the controversy. He said the Ministry will wait for the FFM’s findings, but warned that if wrongdoing is confirmed, both clubs could lose their licenses through an urgent process.
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