FIRST VICTORY FOR PAUNOVIĆ’S EAGLES: Mitrović and Pavlović took down the Saudis with a great comeback in Bačka Topola! (VIDEO)

The Serbian national football team defeated Saudi Arabia 2:1 (0:1) in a friendly match played at the TSC Arena in Bačka Topola.

After the defeat against Spain in Villarreal, Veljko Paunović’s chosen ones had a clear task – to redeem themselves against a participant in this year’s World Cup.

Although the Eagles were favorites, their net shook as early as the 8th minute. Following a catastrophic error by our defense, Saudi Arabia reached the goal. Predrag Rajković ran far out from his goal and had a misunderstanding with Aleksa Terzić, and their miscommunication was exploited by Alhamdan, who easily scored for the lead.

The second part of the match brought a more aggressive game from Serbia, and in the 46th minute, Pavlović scored a goal – however, as he was offside, the goal was disallowed. The continuation of the game brought countless opportunities, but the Saudis managed to withstand each one – except for the one in the 66th minute. Strahinja Pavlović leveled the score at 1:1 with spectacular bicycle kick.

Only four minutes later, a turnaround occurred in Bačka Topola – Aleksandar Mitrović took advantage of a clear-cut chance, and the Eagles finally led in the match.

This is Serbia’s first triumph since Veljko Paunović became the national team’s head coach.