Celje
Slovan Bratislava Edge Celje 2-1 After Extra-Time Thriller
Celje’s UEFA Champions League dreams ended in heartbreak as Cristian Martinez’s 100th-minute strike handed Slovan Bratislava a dramatic 2-1 victory in the play-off round. The Slovenian side fought valiantly but fell short in a pulsating encounter that stretched into extra time.
Celje’s Early Setback
The hosts were dealt an early blow when Andraž Šporar put Slovan Bratislava ahead in the 18th minute, slotting home after a slick assist from Kenan Bajrić. Celje regrouped and equalised from the spot in the 34th minute through Svit Sešlar after a handball in the box, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Tactical Battle Ensues
The second half saw both teams make multiple substitutions as they searched for a winner. Slovan Bratislava’s Yaya Touré and Celje’s Vitor Campelos engaged in a tactical battle, with the hosts dominating possession (62%) but struggling to break down a resolute Slovakian defence. The tension mounted as the clock ticked towards extra time.
Martinez Delivers the Knockout Blow
The decisive moment came in the 100th minute when Cristian Martinez latched onto Nikola Marcelli’s through ball and fired past Žan-Luk Leban to send the travelling Slovan Bratislava fans into delirium. Celje’s frustration boiled over in the dying moments as Andrej Kotnik was sent off, compounding their misery.
What This Means
Slovan Bratislava’s victory propels them into the Champions League group stage, a remarkable achievement for Yaya Touré’s side. For Celje, it’s a crushing end to their European adventure, but they can take pride in their spirited performance against more fancied opposition. Both teams will now turn their attention to domestic duties as they look to build on this pulsating encounter.
Key Moments
18′ ⚽ Slovan Bratislava — A. Sporar (assist: K. Bajric)
34′ ⚽ Celje — S. Seslar
100′ ⚽ Slovan Bratislava — C. Martinez (assist: N. Marcelli)
119′ 🟥 Celje — A. Kotnik sent off🔮 Before kick-off: our match preview & prediction.
