Youngsters Petkovic and Bazdar after the Javor game

Partizan won three points in the first league game of 2022/23 season with goals from young debutant Petkovic (`21), Natcho (`68), Bazdar (`77) and Ricardo (90+2). Mihajlo Petkovic played his first official game for the club while youngster Bazdar scored his first Partizan goal. WE chatted to both Partizan young guns after the match.

“When I realized I`m going to start the game I had positive shivers and I was eager for the match to start. I progressed a lot since the last season and gained a lot of confidence with the help of more experienced teammates, I can now feel free to play to the best of my abilities. Of course, there`s was a bit of fear ahead of the kick-off but once the game starts, everything goes away and we are out there with only one aim – to win the match”, said 18-year-old winger Petkovic.

Mihajlo Petkovic scored the game`s opener on 21.

“I could not drem of a better debut. When you have Natcho in your team, everything is so much easier. I did cry a bit but it was out of joy, I couldn`t control myself. Everyone congratulated me in the end and support of older teammates means a lot to me. This goal is dedicated to my grandfather he died last year but I know he watched it all from above”.

18-year-old forward Bazdar scored his first Partizan goal in total of 10 appearances – mostly from the bench – so far.

“Truly fantastic start of the season. We were all wary of this away game as we know these early away matches are a double-edged sword and if want to fight for the title we cannot drop those points.  I`m thrilled we had a great start and this is a big boost for us ahead of more challenging matches. Personally, I`m over the moon as I`m finally rewarded for my efforts and work, as well as for those moments of sadness which I had every time I wasn`t able to convert my opportunities. This is the proof that work and patience give you the best results in the right moment. I`m glad Petkovic scored too and how Andrade fitted into this team. With all the work and joint desire, we push forward with no fear”, said young Partizan forward.

Partizan is away to Radnicki Nis on Friday, July 15.