Montenegro national football team
The Montenegro national football team is the men's national association football representative team of Montenegro, controlled by the Football Association of Montenegro (FSCG).[1] The team was formed in the aftermath of Montenegro's independence from Serbia and Montenegro in 2006, debuting internationally in 2007 upon gaining full membership in both FIFA and UEFA.[2][3] Nicknamed the Hrabri sokoli ("Brave Falcons"), it plays home matches primarily at Podgorica City Stadium in the capital, Podgorica, and competes in UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup qualifiers as well as the UEFA Nations League.[4][5][6] As of October 2025, the team holds the 83rd position in the FIFA Men's World Ranking, reflecting consistent mid-tier performance without qualification for major tournaments like the World Cup or European Championship, though it has recorded competitive results in qualifiers and Nations League play.[7][3]History
Involvement in predecessor teams
The region of Montenegro contributed a limited number of players to the Yugoslavia national football team during the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia era (1945–1992), with representation increasing modestly in the 1980s compared to dominant republics like Serbia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Notable Montenegrin contributors included defender Dragoljub Brnović, who earned caps in the late 1980s, reflecting the republic's smaller population and talent pool relative to the federation's overall structure.[8] Midfielder Dejan Savićević, born in Bijelo Polje, debuted for the team in 1991 and became a prominent figure with 46 appearances across pre-1992 Yugoslavia and its immediate successor, underscoring gradual integration of Montenegrin talent into competitive squads amid the federation's successes, such as the 1960 European Nations' Cup final.[9] Following the dissolution of SFR Yugoslavia in 1992 amid ethnic conflicts and international sanctions, the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (FR Yugoslavia, comprising primarily Serbia and Montenegro) continued under FIFA and UEFA recognition as the partial legal successor, with Montenegrin players maintaining involvement through the 1990s and early 2000s. Savićević captained the side to the UEFA Euro 2000 quarter-finals, while forward Predrag Mijatović, from Cetinje, added to the legacy with appearances in the 1998 FIFA World Cup squad.[9] The team was renamed Serbia and Montenegro in 2003, playing eight matches before the union's end; Montenegrins such as forward Mirko Vučinić, who debuted in friendlies against Estonia (November 2004) and Russia (March 2005), represented the team during its final qualification for the 2006 FIFA World Cup, where it advanced via UEFA playoffs against Bosnia and Herzegovina but earned zero points in the group stage, losing 1–0 to the Netherlands, 6–0 to Argentina, and 3–2 to Ivory Coast.[10] Vučinić was named to the World Cup squad but withdrew due to injury prior to the tournament.[11] Montenegro's independence referendum on May 21, 2006, passed with 55.5% approval, leading to the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro's dissolution on June 5, 2006, and the formation of separate football associations. FIFA and UEFA admitted the Football Association of Montenegro as a full member on October 23, 2007, recognizing it as a new entity without inheritance of prior records or rankings, which were allocated to Serbia as the continuity state per confederation precedents for successor arrangements.[12] This reset positioned Montenegro's team to begin its independent history from zero matches, distinct from the predecessor federations' archives.Formation following independence
Following the successful independence referendum on 21 May 2006, which resulted in Montenegro's formal declaration of independence from Serbia on 3 June 2006, the Football Association of Montenegro (FSCG) was promptly established as the autonomous governing body for football, operating independently from 28 June 2006. This separation ended the joint administration under the former Football Association of Serbia and Montenegro, necessitating the creation of distinct national structures, including league reorganization and team formation without any inherited international qualifications or obligations from the predecessor union. The FSCG focused on immediate organizational setup, including player eligibility criteria based on citizenship and residency ties to Montenegro. The FSCG applied for membership in UEFA and FIFA on 30 June 2006, initially receiving provisional UEFA membership in October 2006 to facilitate preparatory activities. Full UEFA membership was granted on 26 January 2007 at the UEFA Congress in Düsseldorf, enabling participation in European competitions. FIFA admission followed on 29 May 2007, marking the team's eligibility for global tournaments, though the process highlighted challenges in verifying administrative independence and resolving asset divisions from the prior federation. These affiliations required rigorous documentation to affirm the FSCG's sovereignty, amid the broader dissolution of the Serbia and Montenegro entity. Initial squad selection drew exclusively from domestic league players and Montenegrin-eligible athletes in foreign clubs or the diaspora, prioritizing those not committed to Serbia's national team post-split. This built a roster from scratch, with no carryover of Serbia and Montenegro's World Cup or European qualification status, which Serbia assumed for ongoing cycles. The emphasis was on rapid integration of talents like emerging forwards and midfielders from clubs such as Budućnost and Zeta, laying the groundwork for competitive viability despite limited infrastructure.First competitive matches
Montenegro's inaugural match as an independent nation occurred on 24 March 2007, a friendly against Hungary played in Podgorica's City Stadium, resulting in a 2–1 victory secured by second-half penalties from Mirko Vučinić in the 63rd minute and Simon Burzanović in the 83rd.[13][14] This debut, coached by Zoran Filipović, highlighted the team's potential despite its nascent formation from players previously associated with the Serbia and Montenegro squad, though heavy rain affected play.[15] Subsequent friendlies revealed early inconsistencies, including a 2–0 loss to Japan on 1 June 2007 in Tokyo, where defensive lapses were evident against a more established side.[16] These preparatory games served to build cohesion amid logistical challenges, such as assembling a roster without a deep domestic talent pool and adapting to independent FIFA and UEFA membership granted earlier that year. Average attendances for home fixtures in this period hovered around 8,000 spectators, reflecting growing national interest but limited infrastructure compared to larger football nations.[2] Montenegro entered competitive football with the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in UEFA Group 8, alongside Italy, Republic of Ireland, Bulgaria, Georgia, and Cyprus, where they finished fourth out of six teams with three wins, four draws, and five losses.[17] Notable results included a 2–0 home win over Bulgaria on 10 October 2009, showcasing improved attacking play, contrasted by heavy defeats such as a 3–0 loss to Ireland on 28 March 2009 in Dublin, underscoring defensive vulnerabilities against top-tier opponents.[17] The campaign's first competitive victory came on 10 October 2009, a 2–1 home triumph over Georgia, with Andrija Delibašić scoring on debut, though overall elimination highlighted the hurdles of competing without prior qualifying experience.[17]Qualification efforts and relative successes
Montenegro's efforts in the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers represented an early relative success, with the team earning 11 points in UEFA Group H through three wins, two draws, and five losses. Notable achievements included a 1-0 away victory against Moldova on 7 June 2013 and a decisive 5-2 home win over the same opponent on 15 October 2013, showcasing offensive potency against lower-ranked sides.[18] These results contributed to a fourth-place finish behind England, Ukraine, and Poland, a marked improvement from their 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign where they secured just one win in ten matches.[19] The UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying campaign marked Montenegro's strongest performance to date, culminating in third place in Group G with 12 points from four wins, zero losses in regulation (prior to forfeits), three draws, and three defeats. Highlights encompassed a 1-0 home win over Russia on 27 March 2014 and competitive draws against Sweden, maintaining contention for a potential playoff spot until the final matches.[20] A subsequent home match against Russia on 27 March 2015 was abandoned due to crowd violence and later forfeited as a 0-3 loss by UEFA, impacting their standings despite a solid underlying record.[21][22] In the 2018–19 UEFA Nations League C Group 4, Montenegro drew 0–0 with Romania on 6 September 2018 and 1–1 on 16 November 2018, while holding Serbia to a 0–0 away draw on 13 October 2018, though losses like 0–1 to Serbia on 6 September 2018 led to a third-place finish and relegation to League D.[23] Stevan Jovetić proved instrumental across these mid-2010s efforts, delivering scoring bursts such as goals in Euro 2016 qualifiers against Liechtenstein and Moldova, which bolstered the team's transitional play.[20] These campaigns aligned with Montenegro's peak FIFA ranking of 72nd, attained in March 2015, driven by tactical emphases on defensive organization and quick counters under coaches prioritizing empirical match outcomes over expansive possession.[7] Despite these highs, the team consistently fell short of playoffs or major tournament berths, underscoring challenges in sustaining performance against elite opponents, with no advancement beyond group stages in UEFA competitions during the decade.[7]Recent developments and challenges
In the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, Montenegro finished last in Group G, earning just 3 points from 10 matches with no victories, two draws, and eight defeats, failing to advance to the playoffs.[24] The team conceded 31 goals while scoring only 8, highlighting defensive frailties against stronger opponents like the Netherlands and France.[25] Montenegro's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying efforts in UEFA Group L have similarly faltered as of October 2025, placing fourth after five matches with 2 wins, 0 draws, and 3 losses for 6 points.[24] Victories came against Gibraltar (3-1) and Faroe Islands (1-0), but heavy defeats included 0-4 to Croatia and 0-2 plus 2-0 losses to Czechia, underscoring struggles against mid-tier European sides.[24] This positioning leaves qualification hopes remote, with the team trailing leaders Croatia and Czechia significantly in goal difference and points.[26] Managerial instability exacerbated these results, culminating in the dismissal of Robert Prosinečki on September 19, 2025, following consecutive World Cup qualifier losses to Czechia.[27] Former Juventus and Roma striker Mirko Vučinić was appointed head coach the same day, marking the latest in a series of transitions aimed at injecting fresh tactical approaches amid persistent underperformance.[27] Vučinić, a Montenegro international with over 40 caps, inherits a squad ranked 81st in FIFA's October 2025 men's world rankings, a drop precipitated by a recent upset loss to Faroe Islands.[28] Persistent challenges stem from overreliance on a core of aging players, such as Stefan Savić and Stevan Jovetić, both in their mid-30s, with limited integration of emerging talent due to weak domestic youth pipelines.[29] Montenegro's small population of around 620,000 and high emigration rates contribute to talent drain, as promising youths often move abroad early without sufficient national team exposure, per UEFA assessments of grassroots development.[12] Infrastructure constraints further hinder progress, with ongoing but incomplete renovations at Podgorica City Stadium and a lack of advanced training facilities lagging behind regional peers, limiting player preparation and scout retention.[30] FIFA data on youth competitions shows Montenegro's U-19 and U-21 sides consistently mid-table in European qualifiers, reflecting systemic gaps in talent nurturing rather than isolated coaching failures.[31]Venues and facilities
Podgorica City Stadium
Podgorica City Stadium, known locally as Stadion pod Goricom, serves as the primary home venue for the Montenegro national football team, hosting all major competitive matches since the team's formation in 2006. Opened in 1945 following World War II, the multi-purpose stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 15,230, though this is often reduced for international fixtures to comply with safety regulations, typically accommodating between 10,000 and 13,000 spectators.[32][33] It features a grass surface measuring 105 by 70 meters and has undergone multiple renovations to adapt to evolving standards, including efforts in the 2010s to align with UEFA requirements for infrastructure like dressing rooms and spectator areas.[33] The stadium's role in national team performances is tied to its consistent use for UEFA and FIFA qualifiers, where it provides a compact, intense environment that amplifies fan support despite modest average attendances of 5,000 to 10,000 for home games. For instance, during UEFA Euro qualifiers, crowds have averaged around 10,000, contributing to a vocal atmosphere noted for its passion during key matches against stronger opponents. However, attendance has varied, with lower figures like 3,012 recorded for a 2019 Nations League game against Hungary, reflecting challenges in sustaining high turnout for less prominent fixtures.[34][35] Pitch conditions at Podgorica City Stadium have periodically impacted play, particularly due to Montenegro's hot summer climate, which causes the grass to dry out, crater, and thin, leading to UEFA-mandated venue relocations for recent matches such as the 2024 Nations League games against Wales and Turkey. These issues stem from extreme heat exacerbating wear on the natural turf, prompting plans for a hybrid surface installation and full pitch replacement as part of a 2025 reconstruction funded by the government and Football Federation of Montenegro. While not offering high-altitude advantages—Podgorica sits at about 46 meters above sea level—the venue's enclosed setup can create humid, sticky conditions that test visiting teams' endurance in warmer months. Ongoing upgrades aim to resolve these deficiencies and ensure compliance with UEFA's Category 4 standards for future internationals.[36][37][38]Camp FSCG and other facilities
The Camp FSCG, situated on the outskirts of Podgorica at Ćemovsko polje, functions as the central training hub for Montenegro's national football teams, encompassing men's, women's, and youth squads. Established in 2007 coinciding with the Football Association of Montenegro's (FSCG) entry into UEFA and FIFA, the complex includes administrative offices in the House of Football, multiple training pitches compliant with UEFA standards, and auxiliary structures for team preparations.[12] It spans roughly 54,000 square meters and supports daily operations for national team camps, with pitches used for both training and occasional lower-tier matches.[39] The facility primarily hosts pre-match training sessions for the senior national team ahead of UEFA competitions, including Nations League fixtures, enabling focused tactical work in a controlled environment near the capital. National teams utilize its grounds for acclimatization and fitness regimens, supplemented by on-site recovery and meeting areas, though lodging capacity remains modest compared to dedicated international camps. Occasional overseas training occurs for climatic advantages or enhanced facilities, as seen in shared arrangements with foreign federations.[40] Relative to regional peers like Serbia or Croatia, Camp FSCG's infrastructure reflects Montenegro's resource constraints as a small nation, with ongoing FSCG emphasis on upgrades to bolster youth pathways amid broader calls for expanded pitches and modern amenities. Recent developments include a new 4-million-euro training complex in Bijelo Polje, initiated in May 2025, featuring natural and artificial turf pitches alongside club facilities to alleviate pressure on the primary site and aid talent integration.[41][42][43]Managerial history
Head coaches
The head coaches of the Montenegro national football team have managed the side since its independence in 2007, with appointments reflecting efforts to build competitiveness in UEFA competitions despite limited resources and a small player pool. Early managers focused on establishing team identity through friendly matches and initial qualifiers, while later tenures emphasized qualification campaigns for major tournaments, often yielding modest results with points per game (PPG) averaging around 1.2–1.5 across coaches.[44]| Coach | Tenure | Matches | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zoran Filipović | February 2007 – December 2009 | 23 | 1.39 |
| Zlatko Kranjčar | February 2010 – September 2011 | 13 | 1.54 |
| Branko Brnović | September 2011 – January 2016 | 34 | 1.24 |
| Ljubiša Tumbaković | January 2016 – June 2019 | 27 | 1.07 |
| Faruk Hadžibegić | July 2019 – December 2020 | 14 | 1.57 |
| Miodrag Radulović | December 2020 – December 2023 | 32 | 1.19 |
| Robert Prosinečki | February 2024 – September 2025 | 16 | 1.00 |
| Mirko Vučinić | September 2025 – present | 2 | 1.50 |
Squad and staff
Current coaching staff
Mirko Vučinić serves as head coach, having been appointed on September 19, 2025, after the sacking of predecessor Robert Prosinečki amid early struggles in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying. A former professional striker who scored 11 goals in 44 appearances for Juventus between 2011 and 2014, Vučinić's tenure emphasizes rejuvenating the squad through greater youth integration, evident in his initial call-ups featuring emerging talents alongside veterans. This approach aligns with preparations for remaining World Cup qualifiers and the 2024–25 UEFA Nations League, where Montenegro seeks improved cohesion following a winless start under prior management.[47][48][49] Supporting Vučinić are assistant coach and analyst Nenad Stanković, appointed to aid tactical preparation and performance review, and fitness coach Kosta Goranović, retained from the previous regime to maintain continuity in physical conditioning. The staff configuration was finalized on October 3, 2025, just prior to Vučinić's debut match against the Faroe Islands on October 7. No dedicated goalkeeping coach has been publicly announced as part of the recent changes, with responsibilities likely handled internally or via ad hoc support. These appointments reflect a streamlined setup prioritizing Vučinić's vision for a more dynamic, youth-oriented team dynamic in competitive fixtures.[50][51]Current squad
The current squad for the Montenegro national football team was selected by head coach Mirko Vučinić for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification match against the Faroe Islands on 9 October 2025 and the friendly against Liechtenstein on 13 October 2025, comprising 23 players emphasizing a balance of defensive solidity from veterans and attacking potential from younger talents amid transitions following the previous regime.[52] Selection criteria prioritized players with consistent club form in European leagues and domestic competitions, excluding long-term captain Stevan Jovetić due to injury, while incorporating recent inclusions like right-back Adam Marušić for his versatility and experience at Serie A level.[53] The squad's average age stands at around 28 years, reflecting a strategic mix to build competitiveness in UEFA competitions.[54]| Pos. | Player | Club | Caps (as of Oct 2025) | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | ||||
| GK | Igor Nikić | CD Mirandés | 7 | 0 |
| GK | Danijel Petković | FS Jelgava | 28 | 0 |
| GK | Balša Popović | OFK Beograd | 2 | 0 |
| Defenders | ||||
| DF | Adam Marušić | Lazio | 66 | 5 |
| DF | Stefan Savić | Atlético Madrid | 77 | 9 |
| DF | Nikola Šipčić | Asteras Tripolis | 19 | 0 |
| DF | Milan Roganović | Čukarički | 3 | 0 |
| DF | Andrija Vukčević | TSC Bačka Topola | 3 | 0 |
| Midfielders | ||||
| MF | Vasilije Adžić | Juventus | 4 | 1 |
| MF | Marko Bakić | Persepolis | 37 | 0 |
| MF | Miloš Brnović | Budućnost Podgorica | 20 | 1 |
| MF | Edvin Kuč | Universitatea Craiova | 31 | 2 |
| Forwards | ||||
| FW | Nikola Krstović | US Salernitana | 31 | 6 |
| FW | Milutin Osmajić | Preston North End | 30 | 3 |
Recent call-ups
In September 2025, UD Almería winger Marko Perović, aged 20, earned his first senior international call-up to the Montenegro squad for 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, including fixtures against the Czech Republic and subsequent opponents, as part of efforts to integrate emerging talents amid a thin domestic pipeline.[55] Similarly, Qarabağ midfielder Marko Janković was summoned around the same period for the qualifying campaign, marking a return for the 30-year-old with prior experience but highlighting coach preferences for versatile midfield options from abroad.[56] These inclusions reflect a focus on diaspora-linked players, as Montenegro continues to draw from overseas clubs to address limited depth from local leagues.[54] The September 5, 2025, World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic exposed vulnerabilities in squad rotation, with defender Adam Marušić and forward Milutin Osmajić unavailable due to injuries, necessitating adjustments including potential starts for less-tested options like goalkeeper Igor Nikić.[57][58] Such absences, combined with occasional exclusions of veterans to prioritize youth integration, underscore persistent challenges in building a robust talent pipeline, as the team has leaned on ad-hoc call-ups rather than a steady emergence from Montenegrin academies.[58]Player statistics
Most capped players
Stevan Jovetić holds the record for the most appearances for the Montenegro national team, with 89 caps accumulated between his debut on 24 March 2007 against Hungary and his most recent match on 8 September 2025.[59] Fatos Bećiraj ranks second with 86 caps from 2009 to 2022.[60] Stefan Savić follows with 77 caps as of 9 October 2025, spanning 2010 to the present.[61] The majority of these appearances stem from qualification campaigns for major tournaments, including UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, as well as UEFA Nations League matches, reflecting the team's focus on competitive fixtures over friendlies.[62]| Rank | Player | Caps | Years active |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stevan Jovetić | 89 | 2007–2025 |
| 2 | Fatos Bećiraj | 86 | 2009–2022 |
| 3 | Stefan Savić | 77 | 2010–2025 |
| 4 | Adam Marušić | 66 | 2015–2025 |
| 5 | Žarko Tomašević | 64 | 2010–2023 |
Leading goalscorers
Stevan Jovetić holds the record as Montenegro's all-time leading goalscorer with 37 goals in 87 international appearances, having surpassed Mirko Vučinić's previous mark of 17 goals during his tenure from 2007 to 2016.[63][64] Vučinić, who debuted for the independent Montenegro side in 2007 after representing Serbia and Montenegro, established himself as the initial benchmark scorer through efficient finishing in early qualifiers and friendlies, often via penalties and close-range efforts.[65] Montenegro's scoring has predominantly occurred in World Cup and European Championship qualifiers, where the team has netted over 70% of its total goals since 2007, reflecting higher motivation and structured play against comparable opposition compared to friendlies, which account for sporadic tallies amid experimental lineups.[66] Goals frequently stem from set pieces like headers or penalties, with Jovetić contributing multiple via direct free-kicks and spot-kicks, though overall conversion rates remain modest in competitive fixtures due to defensive setups by stronger rivals.[67] As of October 2025, following UEFA Nations League matches, no further updates alter the hierarchy, with emerging forwards like Nikola Krstović adding to depth but trailing significantly.[63]| Rank | Player | Goals | Years active |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stevan Jovetić | 37 | 2007–present |
| 2 | Mirko Vučinić | 17 | 2007–2016 |
| 3 | Stefan Savić | 9 | 2008–present |
| 4 | Dejan Damjanović | 7 | 2008–2017 |
| 5 | Nikola Krstović | 6 | 2021–present |
Tournament history
FIFA World Cup record
The Montenegro national football team has competed in FIFA World Cup qualifiers since 2008 but has never advanced to the finals tournament. As a relatively new entity post-independence, the team has consistently finished outside the top two in UEFA groups, which are required for direct qualification or play-offs, often due to defeats against higher-ranked opponents despite occasional upsets against weaker sides. Aggregate statistics across completed campaigns show 15 wins, 7 draws, and 18 losses in 40 matches, with 56 goals scored and 58 conceded.[68] The best results came in the 2014 and 2018 cycles, both yielding third-place finishes with 16 points from 10 matches each: 5 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses. In 2014 Group H (England, Ukraine, Poland, Montenegro, Moldova, San Marino), they scored 16 goals to 12 conceded, including heavy victories over San Marino (6–0, 1–0). The 2018 Group E (Poland, Denmark, Romania, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Montenegro) saw 20 goals scored against 12 conceded, highlighted by a 4–1 win over Denmark.[69][70] In contrast, the 2010 campaign ended fifth in Group 8 (Italy, Bulgaria, Republic of Ireland, Cyprus, Georgia, Montenegro) with 1 win, 3 draws, and 6 losses (7–16 goals). The 2022 Group G (Netherlands, Turkey, Norway, Latvia, Gibraltar, Montenegro) resulted in fourth place via 4 wins, 2 draws, and 4 losses (13–18 goals). The 2026 qualifiers, in Group L (Croatia, Czech Republic, Faroe Islands, Montenegro, Gibraltar), remain ongoing; after 6 of 8 matches as of October 2025, they hold fourth with 2 wins and 4 losses (4–13 goals).[71]| Year | Group | GP | W | D | L | GF | GA | Pts | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 8 | 10 | 1 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 16 | 6 | 5th of 6 |
| 2014 | H | 10 | 5 | 1 | 4 | 16 | 12 | 16 | 3rd of 6 |
| 2018 | E | 10 | 5 | 1 | 4 | 20 | 12 | 16 | 3rd of 6 |
| 2022 | G | 10 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 13 | 18 | 14 | 4th of 6 |
| 2026 | L (ongoing) | 6 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 13 | 6 | 4th of 5 |
UEFA European Championship record
The Montenegro national football team has never qualified for the finals of the UEFA European Championship since becoming independent in 2006. Their qualification campaigns have been marked by competitive group stage performances occasionally offset by playoff defeats and inconsistent results, particularly in away fixtures where they have historically struggled to secure points compared to home games. In the UEFA Euro 2012 qualifiers, Montenegro finished second in Group G, advancing to the play-offs as one of the best runners-up. They faced the Czech Republic in the play-offs, suffering a 0–3 aggregate loss (0–2 at home on November 11, 2011; 0–1 away on November 15, 2011).[72] For UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying in Group G (with Russia, Austria, Sweden, Moldova, and Liechtenstein), Montenegro ended fourth with 11 points from 10 matches (3 wins, 2 draws, 5 losses; 10 goals for, 13 against), failing to reach the play-offs. Notable results included a 2–0 home win over Moldova on September 8, 2014.[73] In UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying Group J (England, Czech Republic, Kosovo, Bulgaria), they placed fourth with 12 points from 10 matches (3 wins, 3 draws, 4 losses), behind Kosovo on goal difference, and did not advance to the Nations League-linked play-offs. Key fixtures included a 1–5 home loss to England on March 25, 2019, and a 0–3 away defeat to the Czech Republic on September 10, 2019.[74][75] Montenegro's UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying in Group G (Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, Lithuania) resulted in last place with 3 points from 8 matches (1 win, 0 draws, 7 losses; 4 goals for, 15 against), underscoring ongoing challenges with defensive vulnerabilities and away form, where they earned zero points. Their sole victory was a 2–0 home win over Lithuania. Overall, across 44 European Championship qualifier matches to date, Montenegro has recorded 10 wins, 7 draws, and 27 losses.[76]| Year | Qualification Stage | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | Pos. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Play-offs | 12 | 6 | 3 | 3 | 19 | 13 | — |
| 2016 | Group stage | 10 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 10 | 13 | 4th |
| 2020 | Group stage | 10 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 9 | 14 | 4th |
| 2024 | Group stage | 8 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 4 | 15 | 5th |
UEFA Nations League record
Montenegro entered the UEFA Nations League in its inaugural 2018–19 edition, placed in League C based on UEFA coefficients. The competition's group stage format consists of six matches per team, influencing squad rotation and preparation compared to extended qualification campaigns for major tournaments.[77] In 2018–19 League C Group 4, alongside Serbia, Romania, and Lithuania, Montenegro recorded one win, one draw, and four losses, scoring three goals and conceding seven, for four points and third place, avoiding relegation to League D while Serbia promoted.[77][78] Promoted after topping 2020–21 League C Group 1 (with Luxembourg, Cyprus, and Azerbaijan) via four wins, one draw, and one loss—10 goals scored, two conceded, 13 points—Montenegro advanced to League B for 2022–23.[79][80] However, in 2022–23 League B Group 3 (with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Romania, and Finland), two wins, one draw, and three losses yielded six goals for, seven against, and seven points, resulting in last place and immediate relegation to League C.[81][82] Reinstated in League B for 2024–25 Group 4 (with Wales, Turkey, and Iceland) after overall rankings, Montenegro managed one win, no draws, and five losses—four goals scored, nine conceded, three points—finishing bottom and facing relegation to League C for the 2026–27 edition.[6][83]| Edition | League | Group | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | Pts | Pos/4 | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018–19 | C | 4 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 3 | 7 | 4 | 3rd | Remained in League C |
| 2020–21 | C | 1 | 6 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 10 | 2 | 13 | 1st | Promoted to League B |
| 2022–23 | B | 3 | 6 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 4th | Relegated to League C |
| 2024–25 | B | 4 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 5 | 4 | 9 | 3 | 4th | Relegated to League C |
Results and records
Recent results and fixtures
In 2025, Montenegro competed in UEFA Group L of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, securing victories against Gibraltar while suffering defeats to stronger opponents including the Czech Republic and Croatia. A 2–2 draw with the [Faroe Islands](/page/Faroe Islands) highlighted defensive vulnerabilities in a mid-table campaign. Additionally, a narrow friendly win over Liechtenstein provided limited preparation ahead of qualification matches.| Date | Opponent | Result | Competition | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 March 2025 | Czech Republic | 0–1 | 2026 FIFA World Cup qual. | Prague (away) |
| 9 June 2025 | Faroe Islands | 2–2 | 2026 FIFA World Cup qual. | Podgorica (home) |
| 8 September 2025 | Croatia | 0–4 | 2026 FIFA World Cup qual. | Zagreb (away) |
| 13 October 2025 | Liechtenstein | 2–1 | International friendly | Podgorica |
| 14 October 2025 | Gibraltar | 3–1 | 2026 FIFA World Cup qual. | Nikšić (home) |
Head-to-head record
The Montenegro national football team has recorded an overall win percentage of approximately 40% across competitive and friendly fixtures since its inception in 2007.[88] This figure reflects dominance over weaker opponents contrasted with consistent struggles against higher-caliber teams, particularly those ranked in the FIFA top 20 at the time of matches. Against Balkan rival Serbia, Montenegro has contested three official matches since 2018, suffering defeats in all: 0–2 (away, March 2023, UEFA Euro qualifiers) and 1–3 (home, October 2023, UEFA Euro qualifiers), alongside an earlier friendly loss.[89] This yields a 0% win rate, with Serbia outscoring Montenegro 8–2 aggregate.[90] Montenegro exhibits high success rates against smaller UEFA nations, exemplified by a perfect 100% win record versus Gibraltar in three World Cup qualifiers: 4–1 (home, March 2021), 3–0 (away, October 2021), and 3–1 (home, March 2025).[91] Similar patterns hold against teams like San Marino, where Montenegro secured its largest victory margin of 6–0 (September 2012, World Cup qualifiers).[62] Conversely, results against elite opponents remain dismal, with zero wins in four encounters against England (including a 0–7 defeat in November 2019, Euro qualifiers) and comparable futility versus Poland (zero wins in four matches).[92] Aggregate data indicates win rates below 20% against top-20 ranked sides, underscoring challenges in offensive output and defensive resilience when facing superior technical and tactical depth.[62]| Opponent | Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | Win % | Notes/Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Serbia | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | All post-2018; aggregate 2–8 GF/GA[90] |
| Gibraltar | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 100 | World Cup qualifiers; aggregate 10–2 GF/GA[91] |
| England | 4 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | Includes qualifiers; heaviest loss 0–7[92] |
| Poland | 4 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Mixed qualifiers/friendlies[92] |
FIFA rankings history
The Montenegro national football team entered the FIFA World Rankings upon its FIFA affiliation in June 2007, debuting at 199th place following its inaugural matches.[7] This low starting position reflected the nascent program's limited competitive history after Montenegro's independence in 2006. Subsequent victories in early qualifiers and friendlies, calculated under FIFA's points-based system—which awards points for match outcomes adjusted by opponent strength, match importance, and confederation factors—enabled a rapid ascent.[7] By June 2011, the team achieved its all-time peak of 16th place, correlating with strong performances in UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying where points accumulation from wins propelled monthly gains of up to several dozen positions.[7] Post-peak, rankings fluctuated in response to inconsistent results across World Cup and European Championship qualifiers. For instance, a 49-place climb to around 70th in October 2016 followed a series of favorable outcomes in UEFA competitions, demonstrating how clustered wins against mid-tier European opponents can yield significant boosts under the ranking algorithm's emphasis on recent form.[7] Declines ensued during qualification failures, such as drops in 2017 after mixed Nations League and friendly results, with losses deducting points proportionally to the opponent's ranking.[7] Annual end-of-year positions hovered between 40th and 70th through the late 2010s, averaging 76th overall, underscoring a mid-tier status tied to sporadic peaks rather than sustained elite contention.[7][93] In recent years, the team experienced a slump amid qualification struggles. Ending 2024 at 73rd, it fell to 81st by 17 October 2025 after defeats like a home loss to the Faroe Islands in World Cup qualifying, which eroded points and highlighted vulnerabilities against lower-ranked sides.[7][28] These monthly updates, released post-international windows, directly link ranking shifts to empirical match data, where a single high-importance win can elevate a team 10 or more spots, while defeats compound downward trends absent compensatory results.[7] Ties in total points are resolved via UEFA confederation coefficients, occasionally stabilizing Montenegro's position relative to non-European peers.[7] Overall, the trajectory illustrates causal dependence on on-field efficacy, with structural factors like squad depth influencing long-term volatility.[7]| Year (December) | FIFA Rank | Notes on Trend |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 46th | Post-qualification recovery |
| 2018 | 44th | Slight improvement from prior year |
| 2019 | 64th | Decline amid inconsistent qualifiers |
| 2020 | 63rd | Marginal stabilization |
| 2024 | 73rd | Pre-slump position before 2025 drop |