Backa Topola survived a serious scare in the Serbian Cup, defeating Semendrija 1924 3-2 in a five-goal thriller on 28 October 2026. The higher-ranked visitors had to come from behind twice before finding a late winner in a tie that kept both sets of supporters on edge until the final whistle.

Match overview

Backa Topola started strongly and took the lead in the 14th minute. A quick passing move opened up the Semendrija defence, and a low finish from the edge of the box gave the visitors an early advantage. Rather than folding, Semendrija responded with spirit and equalised in the 38th minute through a well-placed header from a corner.

The hosts carried that momentum into the second half and took the lead in the 54th minute. A clever flick released a runner into the box, and the finish was calm and precise. Backa Topola suddenly found themselves chasing the game and increased the tempo, pushing more players forward in search of an equaliser.

They found it in the 76th minute when a cross from the right was met with a powerful header. With the tie seemingly heading to extra time, Backa Topola struck again in the 89th minute. A quick counter-attack ended with a composed finish inside the area, breaking Semendrija's resistance and sealing a dramatic 3-2 win.

Key moments

• 14' – Semendrija 1924 0-1: Backa Topola opened the scoring with a low finish after a slick passing move.
• 38' – Semendrija 1924 1-1: A corner was headed home to bring the hosts level.
• 54' – Semendrija 1924 2-1: A clever flick and a calm finish put the hosts ahead.
• 76' – Semendrija 1924 2-2: Backa Topola equalised with a strong header from a right-wing cross.
• 89' – Semendrija 1924 2-3: A late counter-attack produced the winning goal.

Tactical story

Semendrija 1924 deserve credit for their approach. They defended in numbers, but when they won the ball they attacked with purpose and used set pieces effectively. Their lead in the second half came from a brave decision to push midfielders higher, and for a while it looked like it might be enough.

Backa Topola's quality in the final third ultimately made the difference. They kept crossing into dangerous areas and were rewarded for their persistence. The introduction of fresh legs in the second half added energy, and their winner came from a rapid transition that caught Semendrija committed forward.

Standout players

Backa Topola's striker Aleksandar Jović was the standout performer, scoring the equaliser and playing a key role in the late winner. Winger Filip Radovanović caused problems throughout with his delivery and direct running.

For Semendrija 1924, midfielder Nemanja Stojanović was excellent, driving his team forward and involved in both goals. Goalkeeper Miloš Todorović made several saves to keep the tie alive, even if he was eventually beaten by the late winner.

What the result means

Backa Topola advance in the Serbian Cup, but they will know they were pushed hard by a determined Semendrija side. The win is a reminder of their attacking quality, though the defensive lapses will give the coaching staff something to work on. Semendrija 1924 exit with pride after a performance that showed they can compete against stronger opposition, and they will now turn their focus to league matters.