Celje Pivovarna Laško faces Ohrid in European Cup semifinal with one-goal lead

Celje Pivovarna Laško is on the cusp of another European Cup final, aiming to defend their slim first-leg lead against RK Ohrid. This Macedonian-Slovenian club clash is more than just a game; it's a testament to Celje's dominant season, marked by their recent Slovenian Cup victory and a near-perfect record, only recently marred by their first calendar-year loss.

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Pred nami je zahtevna tekma. V Ohridu ne bomo branili gola prednosti s prve tekme, razmišljati moramo o zmagi.

Despite that recent setback, the team remains focused on the task ahead. Coach Klemen Luzar emphasizes the need to play for a win, not just defend the lead. He acknowledges the intimidating atmosphere of the Biljanini Izvori hall in Ohrid, known for its passionate fans, but stresses the importance of blocking out external distractions and concentrating on their own game. This mental fortitude is crucial, especially after a shaky start in the first leg where they conceded six unanswered goals.

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Vemo, da nas čaka tekma na vročem igrišču in pred temperamentnimi gledalci, a moramo odmisliti te zunanje dejavnike in se osredotočiti na svojo igro.

The team's journey through the European Cup has been impressive, overcoming formidable opponents from Belgium, Serbia, Turkey, and Romania. The presence of former Celje stars Tilen Strmljan and Ante Ivanković on the Ohrid roster adds an intriguing subplot to this semifinal. For Celje, this match is an opportunity to cement their status as a European handball powerhouse, showcasing the strength and resilience of Slovenian club handball on the international stage.

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Vedno je lepo igrati v nabito polni dvorani. Peklenskega vzdušja se ne smemo ustrašiti, osredotočiti se moramo na svoje naloge.