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MARCH2

ROUND2

HISTORY

For decades, FK Beograd and Adelaide Croatia Raiders SC have been locked in one of the most passionate and culturally significant rivalries in South Australian football This is far more than just a game it’s a battle of heritage, pride, and identity, with every encounter carrying the weight of history and generations of unwavering support

While recent clashes have reignited the fire, this rivalry stretches far beyond the last few seasons For much of the past two decades, the two sides found themselves in different leagues, with FK Beograd battling through lower divisions while Croatia Raiders competed at a higher level. Yet, even during these years apart, the intensity of their encounters never faded Whether in league play, cup competitions, or friendlies, each meeting was a fierce contest, fuelled by the deep cultural ties and footballing traditions of both clubs' communities

The 2024 season marked another chapter in their long-standing feud, as they faced off twice in the National Premier Leagues (NPL) South Australia Their first meeting on April 20 saw Croatia Raiders edge out a dramatic 3-2 victory, sending their fans into celebration while leaving FK Beograd hungry for revenge That opportunity came on July 13, when Beograd turned the tables with a resounding 3-1 win, proving their resilience and restoring pride in front of their loyal supporters

But these matches are about more than just results they are events that bring entire communities to life The stadiums transform into cauldrons of noise, with roaring chants, colourful banners, and an electric atmosphere that makes this derby one of the most anticipated fixtures of the season The rivalry is deeply rooted in the Serbian and Croatian communities in Australia, and every clash is a continuation of a storied past, passed down through generations.

As both teams prepare to face off on March 2 2025 anticipation is already building Bragging rights

ClubVoice Official Voice

Good afternoon loyal soccer supporters,

We welcome you to the stand alone Sunday derby between two arch rivals FK Beograd v Adelaide Croatia raiders It’s a big round 2 fixture that can set the tone for a big season for both sides The fixture is a showcase for local soccer where true supporters of football embrace their cultural roots and their love for football.

We would like to thank our local supporters and sponsors who have always been loyal to our club and assisted us with the growth of our great club We send a warm welcome to our opponents today and hope they enjoy our traditional hospitality Let’s hope for a great spectacle and let’s bring Beograd home

We thank Joseph for his amazing support from Nocelle foods and some of his great brands such as natures delight

When you are out and about shopping look out for these products and support the people who support your club.

Joseph you legend. Enjoy the day!!

AndrewPopovic Club President

CoachesMessage Official Voice

Hello and welcome to our supporters, officials, volunteers and sponsors to Round 2 of the NPL

Derby Day is always a special fixture and today is no different, as we host Adelaide Croatia Raiders to 1 Solution Frank Mitchell Park

Both clubs will be looking to make amends for Round 1 defeats so we are sure to be entertained with another exciting contest.

Round 1 against Adelaide City was a very cagey affair, as expected in Round 1 The match was very even throughout and was decided by moments, where City took advantage of the limited opportunities they had whilst we couldn’t score when we had our opportunities We have reviewed the match and know where we need to improve on and will put it behind us with full attention turning to this week and getting 3 points on the board

A big mention must go to our incredible supporters and especially our “Ultras” youngsters in the corner last week, you were nice and loud and gave the team a big boost with your constant noise and support It was also great to see so many of our Sponsors for Season 2025 out last week to support the boys, it was a great atmosphere as we always create at FK Beograd

Last year ’ s two derbies were both thrilling encounters on the pitch and were both well supported in the terraces by both sets of supporters

I look forward to another great atmosphere and like last year, lets ensure football is the winner at the end of the day!

Idemo Beograd! (Go Beograd!)

Adrian D’Aloia Senior Coach – FK Beograd

SponsorSpotlight

We’re proud to highlight Nocelles Nature’s Delight as a delighted sponsor of FK Beograd!

With a passion for pure, wholesome living, Nocelles brings high-quality natural products to our community fueling both healthy lifestyles and our team’s journey on and off the field. Their commitment to sustainability and well-being makes them the perfect partner for our club

Thank you, Nocelles Nature’s Delight, for your incredible support! Together, we strive for greatness.

ClubNews

The 2025 junior soccer season in South Australia is gearing up to kick off soon Our player numbers and teams have increased from last year.

We were fortunate to retain Michael Jakobsen as our technical director for another season. Furthermore, we have managed to secure a goalkeeper coach this year

Captain’sMessage Official Voice

Good afternoon everyone and once again welcome to today’s round two match up here at Frank Mitchell park against Adelaide Croatia Raiders.

Today’s match up is with no doubt the biggest fixture that South Australian football has to offer which has been proven from the pride and passion both clubs have shown over the years Last year was the first time in over 9 years that the two clubs had faced each other in the NPL with the first being at the Croatian Sports Centre in which was a spectacular display from both clubs on and off the field. The emotions from that first derby most certainly carried over to the reverse fixture where there was a massive crowd again at Frank Mitchell Park to watch us get a well earnt redemption

Today we face off much earlier in the season in comparison to last year Both sides come into the fixture with a narrow loss in round 1 and look to earn the first points of the season in a competition where every single point is vital For those neutrals here today, enjoy the strong passion, determination and pride that will be displayed here from both teams and take some time to feast yourself to the wonderful food that we have here at Frank Mitchell Park

To our loyal supporters, we need you today, we all know how much this game means to us and how important it is to represent our heritage in this fixture The group appreciate every single one of you and your much devoted dedication to our club week in and week out.

Today, we can make it a moment to remember for years to come

Beograd, Zvi Zajedno

TeamCaptain Andoni Natsiopoulos