For the second time in the club’s history, the Laktaši football team has been crowned champions of Republika Srpska, after defeating Kozara 2–1 in Gradiška in the 32nd round of the First League, securing an unassailable lead over their closest rivals.
Laktaši had a rough start to the 2024/25 season, suffering two consecutive losses—first at home to Rudar Prijedor (0–3), then away to Sloboda in Mrkonjić Grad (2–3). Coach Miljan Bajić resigned after the second defeat, and Slobodan Starčević took over, leading the team to a streak of victories that secured the top spot. After winning the league title with Krupa, the popular “Bobo” has now also claimed glory with Laktaši.
“A big congratulations to the management, coaching staff, and players, who stayed committed and made sacrifices throughout the season in what was a tough and competitive First League of Republika Srpska. I also thank our loyal fans, who supported us in great numbers throughout the season, giving us energy in difficult moments. This is a great achievement—we’ll celebrate briefly and then start preparing for the Premier League of BiH,” said Starčević.
In the match against Kozara—led by sports director Srboljub Jandrić, who stepped in for dismissed coach Alen Medović—Laktaši took the lead in the 34th minute with a goal by league top scorer Milan Šikanjić. Dejan Maksimović equalized just six minutes later. Nikola Turanjanin secured the victory for the new champions in the 74th minute.
“This was our 13th match in the Wednesday-Saturday rhythm, and we knew how important the points were to Kozara in their fight to avoid relegation. We were aware of Medović’s departure, but we managed to win—not through team brilliance, but through individual player quality,” added Starčević.
The Football Association of Republika Srpska congratulated Laktaši on their title—their first since 2007.
“To the players, coaching staff, management, and all fans of Laktaši, we congratulate you on winning the title after 18 years and wish you great success in the Premier League. We hope you will represent your club, city, and the football of Republika Srpska with pride and dignity in the top tier,” the official statement read.
Upcoming 33rd round matches, scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 5:00 PM:
- Borac (KD) – Famos
- Sutjeska – Leotar
- BSK – Zvijezda 09
- Drina (Z) – Slavija
- Velež (N) – Željezničar Sport Team
- Ljubić – Romanija
- Sloboda (MG) – Sloboda (NG)
- Rudar Prijedor – Kozara
- Laktaši – Drina HE
Postponed match from round 29: Velež (N) – Borac (KD) will be played tomorrow at 5:00 PM.
Source: Glas Srpske
