Red Star Belgrade U19 opened their Serbian U19 League campaign with a controlled 2-0 victory over OFK Belgrade U19 on 26 August 2026, delivering a statement performance in front of the home supporters at the club's training ground.

The young Crvena zvezda side dictated proceedings from the first whistle, combining sharp pressing with patient build-up play to overwhelm their city rivals. Two well-taken goals proved enough to secure the three points, and the result offered an early glimpse of the quality within Red Star's academy ranks this season.

First-half breakthrough sets the tone

Red Star's attacking intent was clear from the opening exchanges. They pinned OFK Belgrade deep inside their own half, with the midfield trio controlling possession and the full-backs pushing high to create width. The breakthrough arrived midway through the first half after a fluid team move down the right flank. A clever cut-back found the supporting central midfielder, who swept the ball into the bottom corner from 14 yards to make it 1-0.

OFK Belgrade struggled to respond and rarely threatened the Red Star goal in the opening period. Their defensive shape held for long stretches, but they lacked an outlet in attack and were forced to rely on occasional counter-attacks that were easily snuffed out.

Red Star seal the win after the interval

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Red Star continuing to dominate territory and possession. OFK Belgrade grew into the game slightly and enjoyed a brighter spell just after the hour mark, but the home defence stood firm.

Red Star doubled their lead with twenty minutes remaining, punishing a lapse in concentration from the OFK backline. A patient passing sequence opened up space on the edge of the box, and a low, precise strike found the far corner to give the goalkeeper no chance. The goal effectively ended the contest, and the hosts managed the closing stages with professionalism to keep a clean sheet.

Tactical observations

• Midfield control: Red Star's central midfielders dictated the tempo and consistently found space between OFK's lines.
• High pressing: The home side's aggressive press forced numerous turnovers high up the pitch.
• OFK's defensive effort: Despite the defeat, the visitors remained organised and limited Red Star to fewer clear-cut chances than the scoreline suggests.
• Clean-sheet foundation: Red Star's back four and goalkeeper produced a composed display, rarely tested but always alert.

Standout performers

Red Star's match-winner in midfield was the standout performer, contributing both a goal and a tireless work rate in the engine room. The right-back also impressed with his overlapping runs and delivery into the box, while the centre-back partnership handled OFK's sporadic attacks without fuss.

For OFK Belgrade, the goalkeeper made several sharp saves to keep the score respectable, and the left-sided forward showed glimpses of promise despite receiving limited service.

Early-season implications

The victory gives Red Star Belgrade U19 an ideal start as they look to challenge for the Serbian U19 League title. Their ability to control the game against a local rival will please the coaching staff, even as they remain focused on the long season ahead.

OFK Belgrade U19, meanwhile, will take lessons from the defeat and look to bounce back quickly. Their defensive organisation was decent, but improving their ball progression and creativity going forward will be key to climbing the table in the coming weeks.