Cukaricki vs IMT Novi Beograd: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Friday, 17 July 2026 by Steve
Cukaricki vs IMT Novi Beograd
Serbia - Mozzart Bet Super Liga Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
The 2026/2027 Mozzart Bet Super Liga season kicks off with an intriguing Belgrade derby as Cukaricki welcome newly-promoted IMT Novi Beograd to Stadion na Banovom brdu on Sunday evening. This opening round fixture represents a fascinating clash between a well-established Super Liga side and a club that has rapidly ascended through the Serbian football pyramid, earning their place among the elite for the very first time. For Cukaricki, the new campaign offers an opportunity to build on their consistent mid-table performances and potentially push for European qualification spots, while IMT will be eager to prove they belong at this level and avoid the dreaded immediate relegation that often befalls promoted teams in the Serbian top flight.
Cukaricki enter this fixture with a squad that has undergone significant changes during the summer transfer window, blending experienced campaigners with exciting young talent. The club has retained the services of several key players from last season while making strategic additions to strengthen areas of weakness. Manager Goran Milovanović has had a full pre-season to implement his tactical philosophy, and the team has shown promising signs in friendly matches against domestic and international opposition. The home side will be looking to start the season with a victory in front of their passionate supporters, setting a positive tone for the months ahead. For those seeking today's football predictions, this match presents an interesting opportunity to analyze two teams at very different stages of their development.
IMT Novi Beograd, on the other hand, arrive in the Super Liga on the back of an impressive promotion campaign that saw them dominate the First League. The club has invested wisely in the transfer market, bringing in players with Super Liga experience to complement their homegrown talents. Manager Zoran Popović has instilled a disciplined, organized approach that served them well in the second tier, but the step up in quality will test their resolve and tactical flexibility. The visitors will be without the pressure of expectation that comes with being a established top-flight club, which could work in their favor as they look to spring a surprise in the capital. Fans looking for tomorrow's football predictions will find this fixture particularly compelling given the contrasting styles and ambitions of the two sides.
Tactical Preview
Formation & Key Matchups
Cukaricki 4-2-3-1
Goran Milovanović has favored a 4-2-3-1 formation throughout pre-season, utilizing two holding midfielders to provide defensive stability while allowing the attacking trio to express themselves in the final third. The system relies heavily on the full-backs, particularly Srdjan Mijailovic on the right, to provide width and deliver crosses into the box for target man Slobodan Tedic. The double pivot of Dusan Jovancic and Lazar Tufegdzic offers a blend of experience and energy, with Jovancic's positional discipline allowing Tufegdzic to make late runs into the opposition penalty area. The attacking midfield three of Uros Miladinovic, Marko Docic, and Bojica Nikcevic provides creativity, pace, and goal threat from central and wide positions. This tactical setup has proven effective in pre-season friendlies, with Cukaricki averaging over two goals per game in their summer preparations. For bettors interested in over/under betting markets, Cukaricki's attacking intent suggests this could be a high-scoring encounter.
IMT Novi Beograd 4-4-2 / 4-1-4-1
Zoran Popović has shown tactical flexibility during pre-season, alternating between a traditional 4-4-2 and a more defensive 4-1-4-1 depending on the opposition. Against stronger sides like Cukaricki, the manager is likely to opt for the more conservative 4-1-4-1, with Vasilije Novicic operating as a deep-lying playmaker to shield the back four. The wide midfielders, Nikola Glisic and Vladimir Radocaj, will be tasked with tracking back to support their full-backs while also providing an outlet on the counter-attack. The lone striker, whether it be Charly Keita or Oriyomi Lebi, will need to hold up the ball effectively and bring others into play when IMT transitions from defense to attack. The visitors' success will depend on their ability to remain compact defensively and exploit any spaces left by Cukaricki's attacking full-backs. Those exploring double chance predictions may find value in considering IMT's defensive resilience against a potentially expansive home side.
Critical Vulnerability
The most significant tactical vulnerability in this match lies in IMT's ability to cope with Cukaricki's aerial threat. Slobodan Tedic, standing at 1.90m, is a formidable presence in the air, and Cukaricki's wide players are instructed to deliver early crosses into the box at every opportunity. IMT's central defensive pairing of Vukašin Jovanović and Stefan Šapić, while technically proficient, has yet to be tested against the physicality and movement of a striker of Tedic's caliber. Additionally, IMT's tendency to sit deep and invite pressure could prove costly if Cukaricki's midfielders, particularly the creative Marko Docic, are given time and space to pick passes between the lines. The visitors must find a balance between defensive solidity and the ability to relieve pressure through effective counter-attacking, otherwise they risk being pinned back for long periods and eventually succumbing to sustained pressure. Bettors looking at correct score tips should consider how this tactical mismatch could influence the final result.
Team News & Squad Status
Cukaricki 🔥
- Slobodan Tedic – The 25-year-old striker is fully fit after a minor ankle knock in pre-season and is expected to lead the line. He was the club's top scorer last season and will be eager to open his account early.
- Vladimir Stojkovic – The legendary 42-year-old goalkeeper has signed a one-year contract extension and will provide invaluable experience between the posts. His leadership and shot-stopping ability remain crucial assets.
- Lazar Kaličanin – The 21-year-old goalkeeper has impressed in pre-season and is pushing Stojkovic for a starting berth. The competition for the number one spot is healthy and driving both keepers to higher standards.
- Filip Matijasevic – The 17-year-old midfield prodigy has been promoted to the first team squad after outstanding performances for the youth sides. He is considered one of the brightest talents in Serbian football with an estimated transfer value of €1.4M.
- Ismael Maiga – The 22-year-old Malian defender has recovered from a hamstring injury sustained in early July and is available for selection. His pace and physicality add an extra dimension to Cukaricki's backline.
- Milan Pavkov – The experienced 32-year-old forward has joined on a free transfer and provides additional firepower and aerial threat from the bench. His presence gives Milovanović a genuine plan B if Tedic needs rest.
- New Signing: Paul Mbong – The Maltese international forward has arrived to add depth to the attacking options and is expected to feature from the substitutes' bench as he adapts to the demands of Serbian football.
IMT Novi Beograd ⚡
- Vasilije Novicic – The 18-year-old defensive midfielder is the club's most valuable asset at €4M and will be crucial in breaking up Cukaricki's attacks. His composure on the ball and reading of the game belie his tender age.
- Nikola Krstic – The attacking midfielder was the creative heartbeat of IMT's promotion campaign, contributing goals and assists in equal measure. He will need to be at his best to unlock Cukaricki's defense.
- Ognjen Cancarevic – The 22-year-old goalkeeper has been ever-present in pre-season and will make his Super Liga debut. His shot-stopping ability will be severely tested by Cukaricki's attacking arsenal.
- Ismael Casas – The 22-year-old right-back has joined from Spanish football and brings technical quality and defensive discipline to IMT's backline. His battle with Cukaricki's left winger will be a key individual duel.
- Ivan Martos – The experienced Spanish center-back provides leadership and organizational skills to IMT's defense. His ability to marshal the backline against Tedic's physical presence will be critical.
- Charly Keita – The forward has joined on loan and is expected to lead the line. His pace and movement off the ball could trouble Cukaricki's center-backs if given space in behind.
- Stefan Bastaja – The versatile 22-year-old can operate at right-back or in midfield and provides Popović with tactical flexibility. His energy and work rate will be essential in covering the ground against Cukaricki's wide threats.
- Farid Boulaya – The Algerian midfielder brings creativity and set-piece expertise to IMT's midfield. His delivery from dead-ball situations could be a source of goals against a potentially vulnerable Cukaricki defense.
Predicted Lineups
| Cukaricki 4-2-3-1 | IMT Novi Beograd 4-1-4-1 |
|---|---|
| GK: Vladimir Stojkovic | GK: Ognjen Cancarevic |
| RB: Srdjan Mijailovic | RB: Ismael Casas |
| CB: Nenad Tomovic | CB: Vukašin Jovanović |
| CB: Sambou Sissoko | CB: Stefan Šapić |
| LB: Milos Cvetkovic | LB: Moussa Sissako |
| DM: Dusan Jovancic | DM: Vasilije Novicic |
| DM: Lazar Tufegdzic | RM: Nikola Glisic |
| RW: Uros Miladinovic | CM: Josue Tiendrebeogo |
| AM: Marko Docic | CM: Farid Boulaya |
| LW: Bojica Nikcevic | LM: Vladimir Radocaj |
| ST: Slobodan Tedic | ST: Charly Keita |
Head-to-Head Record
The head-to-head record between Cukaricki and IMT Novi Beograd is surprisingly competitive given the disparity in their historical status. The two sides have met on seven occasions across various competitions, with IMT actually holding a slight edge in terms of victories. This can be attributed to IMT's remarkable rise through the Serbian football pyramid, which has seen them close the gap on established Super Liga clubs in recent seasons. The most recent encounters came during the 2025/2026 campaign, where IMT managed to secure positive results against Cukaricki despite playing in a lower division at the time. These results will give the visitors confidence that they can compete with their more illustrious opponents, even on the latter's home turf. For those researching hot predictions, the historical data suggests this fixture is rarely straightforward.
Looking at the statistical breakdown of their encounters, Cukaricki have averaged 1.4 goals per game while conceding 1.43, indicating a relatively even contest in terms of attacking output. IMT, meanwhile, have shown themselves to be a resilient defensive unit, keeping four clean sheets in their seven meetings with Cukaricki. The most recent clash ended in a 1-1 draw during a friendly match in early 2026, with both teams fielding experimental lineups. However, the competitive nature of their previous encounters suggests that IMT will not be overawed by the occasion and will approach the match with a clear game plan to frustrate Cukaricki and capitalize on any defensive lapses. Bettors considering both teams to score markets should note that only one of the seven meetings has ended in a goalless draw, suggesting that both sides usually find the net when they face each other.
Key Players Comparison
⭐ Slobodan Tedic
Cukaricki | Forward
Age: 25 | Height: 1.90m
Top scorer last season with his aerial prowess and clinical finishing. A constant threat in the box.
⭐ Vasilije Novicic
IMT Novi Beograd | Defensive Midfield
Age: 18 | Market Value: €4M
The most valuable player on the pitch. Exceptional reading of the game and composure beyond his years.
⭐ Marko Docic
Cukaricki | Attacking Midfield
Age: 32 | Experience: 200+ Super Liga apps
The creative hub of Cukaricki's attack. His vision and passing range unlock stubborn defenses.
⭐ Nikola Krstic
IMT Novi Beograd | Attacking Midfield
Age: 25 | Market Value: €1.2M
IMT's primary creative force. Led the team in assists during their promotion campaign.
The individual battles across the pitch will ultimately determine the outcome of this fixture. In attack, Slobodan Tedic's physical presence and aerial ability will test the resolve of IMT's center-back pairing, particularly the relatively inexperienced Stefan Šapić. Tedic's movement in the box and ability to bring others into play make him Cukaricki's most dangerous weapon, and IMT will need to double up on him whenever crosses are delivered from wide areas. Conversely, IMT's attacking hopes rest largely on the shoulders of Nikola Krstic, whose creativity and eye for a pass can unlock even the most organized defenses. Krstic's understanding with loan striker Charly Keita will be crucial if IMT are to pose a genuine threat on the counter-attack. In midfield, the duel between Cukaricki's veteran Dusan Jovancic and IMT's teenage sensation Vasilije Novicic will be fascinating to watch – a clash of experience against youthful exuberance that could set the tempo for the entire match. For those exploring bet of the day options, individual player performance markets could offer intriguing value.
The Managers
Goran Milovanović
Goran Milovanović enters his second full season in charge of Cukaricki with a clear mandate to improve on last year's mid-table finish and mount a serious challenge for European qualification. The 48-year-old former midfielder has earned a reputation as one of the most tactically astute coaches in the Serbian Super Liga, favoring a possession-based approach that emphasizes quick transitions and intelligent movement off the ball. Milovanović's man-management skills have been particularly evident in his handling of the club's young talents, with several academy graduates breaking into the first team under his guidance. His pre-season preparations have focused on improving Cukaricki's defensive solidity, which was an area of concern last season when the team conceded an average of 1.43 goals per game. The manager has also worked extensively on set-piece routines, recognizing that IMT's relative lack of height in defensive areas could be exploited from dead-ball situations. Milovanović's experience in high-pressure situations will be invaluable as Cukaricki look to navigate the challenges of a long and demanding Super Liga campaign. Those interested in sure win predictions should note Milovanović's impressive home record, which sees his teams consistently perform better at Stadion na Banovom brdu.
The Serbian coach has also been proactive in the transfer market, identifying players who fit his tactical philosophy while also providing the physical attributes necessary to compete in the demanding Mozzart Bet Super Liga. The addition of Milan Pavkov gives Cukaricki a genuine aerial threat from the bench, while the promotion of Filip Matijasevic from the youth ranks demonstrates Milovanović's commitment to developing homegrown talent. The manager's relationship with the club's supporters has strengthened considerably over the past twelve months, with fans appreciating his honest approach and willingness to give young players opportunities. Milovanović will be acutely aware that a strong start to the season is essential for building momentum, and a victory against newly-promoted IMT would send a clear signal of intent to the rest of the league. His tactical flexibility – demonstrated by his willingness to switch formations mid-game when circumstances dictate – makes Cukaricki a difficult team to prepare for, and IMT's coaching staff will have spent hours analyzing his tendencies in search of exploitable weaknesses.
Zoran Popović
Zoran Popović faces the biggest challenge of his managerial career as he leads IMT Novi Beograd into their inaugural Super Liga campaign. The 52-year-old has been with the club since their days in the lower leagues, overseeing a remarkable rise that has seen IMT climb from regional obscurity to the pinnacle of Serbian football in just a few short years. Popović's coaching philosophy is built on defensive organization, collective effort, and tactical discipline – qualities that served his team exceptionally well in the First League but will be tested to the limit against the superior quality of Super Liga opposition. The manager has been pragmatic in his approach to squad building during the summer transfer window, prioritizing players with top-flight experience who can help his young team navigate the challenges of competing at this level. Popović's man-management style is characterized by clear communication and a no-nonsense attitude that has earned him the respect of his players and the admiration of the IMT faithful. For those looking at draw no bet predictions, Popović's conservative approach away from home makes IMT a potential candidate for such markets.
The IMT manager has been meticulous in his preparations for this fixture, studying hours of footage of Cukaricki's pre-season matches to identify patterns and potential weaknesses in their play. Popović is expected to set his team up in a compact 4-1-4-1 formation, with Vasilije Novicic operating as a defensive screen in front of the back four. The manager's game plan will likely involve absorbing pressure for long periods before looking to hit Cukaricki on the break through the pace of Keita and the creativity of Krstic. Popović has also placed significant emphasis on set-piece defense during training, recognizing that Cukaricki's aerial threat from corners and free-kicks could be decisive. The psychological aspect of management will be crucial for Popović in this fixture – he must ensure his players do not freeze on the big stage while also guarding against overconfidence after their promotion success. His ability to make effective in-game adjustments could be the difference between a respectable result and a heavy defeat, and the IMT bench will be watching closely for any signs of tactical shifts from Milovanović. Those exploring banker of the day selections should consider how Popović's defensive mindset might influence the match dynamics.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 1.65
Cukaricki's superior squad depth, home advantage, and pre-season form make them strong favorites to open their campaign with a victory. The addition of Milan Pavkov and the retention of key players like Slobodan Tedic and Marko Docic give them a significant quality advantage over the newly-promoted visitors. IMT's defensive approach may keep the scoreline respectable for periods, but Cukaricki's persistent attacking pressure is likely to eventually break through. The home side's record at Stadion na Banovom brdu is formidable, and they have historically performed well in opening round fixtures. For bettors seeking reliable options, this represents the safest selection in the match. Consider pairing this with selections from our hot predictions page for accumulator value.
Odds: 1.85
Both teams have shown attacking intent in pre-season, with Cukaricki averaging over two goals per game in their summer friendlies. IMT, while defensively organized, have also found the net regularly against lower-league opposition and will look to carry that confidence into the Super Liga. Cukaricki's backline, featuring the aging but experienced Nenad Tomović and Sambou Sissoko, has shown vulnerability to pace in behind, which Charly Keita and Nikola Krstic are well-equipped to exploit. The tactical setup suggests an open game with chances at both ends, making the over 2.5 goals market an attractive proposition at odds of 1.85. Historical data shows that Cukaricki were involved in 15 matches with over 2.25 goals last season, indicating a tendency for high-scoring encounters. Our over/under prediction tools support this selection based on statistical modeling.
Odds: 2.10
For those seeking slightly higher returns, the Asian handicap market offers excellent value. Cukaricki's quality advantage, combined with IMT's inexperience at this level, suggests the home side could win by a comfortable margin. The -1 handicap means Cukaricki must win by two or more goals for the bet to fully succeed, but even a one-goal victory would result in a stake refund. Given Cukaricki's attacking firepower and IMT's likely defensive fatigue as the match wears on, this market provides a balanced risk-reward ratio. The pre-season evidence suggests Cukaricki are capable of putting multiple goals past organized defenses, and IMT's backline will face its sternest test yet. Bettors interested in Asian handicap analysis will find this selection aligns with current market trends.
Odds: 1.75
Despite Cukaricki being strong favorites, IMT possess enough attacking quality to find the net at least once. Nikola Krstic's creativity and Charly Keita's pace on the counter-attack will trouble Cukaricki's defense, particularly if the home side push too many players forward in search of goals. The head-to-head record supports this selection, with only one goalless draw in seven meetings between these sides. IMT's confidence from their promotion campaign should not be underestimated, and they will view this fixture as an opportunity to announce their arrival in the Super Liga with a spirited performance. The both teams to score market has proven profitable in similar fixtures involving newly-promoted sides against established top-flight teams. Our GG/NG predictions indicate a high probability of both teams finding the net.
Odds: 11.00
Our analysis suggests a 3-1 victory for Cukaricki is the most likely outcome, combining their attacking prowess with IMT's potential to grab a consolation goal. Cukaricki's pre-season form indicates they are capable of scoring multiple goals against organized defenses, while IMT's counter-attacking threat could see them find the net against a potentially overcommitted home defense. The 3-1 scoreline reflects the expected pattern of the match – Cukaricki dominating possession and creating numerous chances, with IMT threatening sporadically on the break. At odds of 11.00, this represents excellent value for bettors willing to take a calculated risk on the exact score. Those interested in correct score tips will find this selection supported by our detailed statistical models and tactical analysis.
📊 Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
Our prediction of a 3-1 victory for Cukaricki is based on a comprehensive analysis of both teams' pre-season form, squad quality, tactical setups, and historical head-to-head data. Cukaricki's attacking trio of Tedic, Docic, and Miladinovic has looked sharp in friendly matches, and their understanding of Milovanović's tactical demands has improved significantly over the summer. The home side's ability to create chances from wide areas through the overlapping runs of Mijailovic and Cvetkovic will stretch IMT's defense and create opportunities for Tedic to exploit his aerial advantage. We anticipate Cukaricki will dominate possession and territory, pinning IMT back for long periods and forcing the visitors into defensive errors. For those looking for fulltime predictions, the home win with goals at both ends represents the most probable outcome based on current form and tactical matchups.
However, IMT should not be written off entirely. Their counter-attacking threat through Keita and Krstic is genuine, and Cukaricki's high defensive line could be vulnerable to balls in behind if IMT's midfielders can execute their passing under pressure. We expect IMT to grow into the game as Cukaricki push for a decisive second goal, potentially leaving spaces at the back that the visitors can exploit. A consolation goal for IMT around the 75-minute mark is a realistic possibility, making the 3-1 scoreline an attractive proposition for correct score bettors. The final twenty minutes could see an open, end-to-end contest as both teams commit players forward, increasing the likelihood of late goals. Bettors exploring win either half markets may find value in backing Cukaricki to win the second half, when IMT's defensive discipline may begin to waver under sustained pressure.
Key Insights & Statistics
- Home Advantage: Cukaricki have lost only three of their last twenty home matches in the Super Liga, making Stadion na Banovom brdu a formidable venue for visiting teams. IMT's first-ever Super Liga away fixture presents a daunting challenge.
- Opening Day History: Cukaricki have won their opening round fixture in four of the last five seasons, demonstrating their ability to start campaigns strongly. IMT have no Super Liga opening day experience to draw upon.
- Aerial Threat: Slobodan Tedic won 68% of his aerial duels last season, the highest percentage among Super Liga strikers. IMT's center-back pairing averages 1.85m in height, giving Tedic a significant physical advantage.
- Youth vs Experience: IMT's squad has an average age of just 24.0 years, the youngest in the Super Liga. Cukaricki's blend of youth and experience, with veterans like Stojkovic (42) and Tomović (38), provides crucial big-game know-how.
- Set-Piece Danger: Cukaricki scored 12 goals from set-pieces last season, accounting for 35% of their total league goals. IMT conceded 8 goals from dead-ball situations in the First League, indicating a potential vulnerability.
- Counter-Attacking Threat: IMT scored 40% of their First League goals on the counter-attack last season. Cukaricki's high defensive line, which averages 42 meters from their own goal, could be exploited by Keita's pace.
- Goalkeeper Battle: Vladimir Stojkovic has kept 127 clean sheets in 312 Super Liga appearances (41% clean sheet rate). Ognjen Cancarevic has never played in the Super Liga and faces the toughest test of his young career.
- Transfer Market Activity: Cukaricki's squad is valued at approximately €8.5M, compared to IMT's €15.68M. However, IMT's higher valuation is largely due to the potential of young players like Novicic rather than proven Super Liga quality.
- Managerial Records: Goran Milovanović has a 58% win rate in home fixtures as Cukaricki manager. Zoran Popović has never managed a team in the Super Liga, making this a significant step up in opposition quality.
- Discipline: IMT received 68 yellow cards and 4 red cards in the First League last season, averaging 2.1 cards per game. Cukaricki averaged 1.8 cards per game, suggesting a potentially physical contest with referee involvement.
Conclusion
The opening round fixture between Cukaricki and IMT Novi Beograd promises to be an absorbing contest that encapsulates the excitement and unpredictability of a new Super Liga season. Cukaricki enter the match as clear favorites, backed by their superior squad depth, home advantage, and wealth of top-flight experience. The additions of Milan Pavkov and Paul Mbong have strengthened their attacking options, while the retention of key players like Slobodan Tedic and Marko Docic ensures continuity in their tactical approach. Manager Goran Milovanović has had ample time to prepare his team for this fixture, and the pre-season evidence suggests Cukaricki are well-equipped to start their campaign with a convincing victory. For bettors seeking reliable predictions, the home win represents the most logical selection, with the over 2.5 goals market offering additional value given both teams' attacking capabilities.
IMT Novi Beograd, however, should not be dismissed lightly. Their remarkable rise through the Serbian football pyramid is testament to the quality of their recruitment, the tactical acumen of manager Zoran Popović, and the collective spirit of a young squad hungry to prove themselves at the highest level. The presence of talented individuals like Vasilije Novicic and Nikola Krstic ensures that IMT possess the technical quality to compete with established Super Liga sides, while their defensive organization and counter-attacking threat could trouble even the most organized defenses. A spirited performance in defeat would still represent a positive start to their top-flight campaign, and the experience gained from fixtures like this will be invaluable as the season progresses. Those exploring best bets for today should consider how IMT's underdog status might influence market pricing and create value opportunities.
Ultimately, we predict a 3-1 victory for Cukaricki that reflects their superiority in key areas while acknowledging IMT's potential to cause problems on the counter-attack. The home side's aerial threat from set-pieces and crosses, combined with their superior possession game, should prove too much for IMT's resolute but ultimately outgunned defense. However, the visitors' pace and creativity in transition could see them register their first-ever Super Liga goal, making the both teams to score market an attractive companion bet. As the 2026/2027 Mozzart Bet Super Liga season gets underway, this fixture sets the stage for what promises to be another thrilling campaign in Serbian football. For comprehensive coverage of all today's football predictions and betting tips, be sure to visit our dedicated predictions page throughout the season.