Celje's European warm-up successful with win over Nafta

NK Celje successfully completed their final European tune-up, defeating Nafta 3-1 in Lendava. This victory follows their historic European achievement mid-week and serves as a crucial warm-up before their upcoming UEFA Europa Conference League qualifier against Slovan Bratislava in the capital of Slovakia.

Celje coach Vitor Campelos fielded a significantly altered lineup compared to their previous European match, resting key players. However, the reserve squad proved more than capable, with Veton Tusha opening the scoring just 150 seconds into the game. Yaya Dukuly extended the lead to 2-0 ten minutes later, capitalizing on a defensive error.

Nafta managed to pull one back before halftime through Luka Poredoš, his first goal in the Prva liga Telemach. Despite the reduced lead, Celje maintained control in the second half. Marko Zabukovnik sealed the 3-1 victory in the 69th minute, ensuring the win and shifting focus to their European ambitions.

Nafta, despite the loss, remains in the upper half of the league table. They will face Olimpija in their next league match, while Celje's league game against Radomlje has been postponed due to their European commitments. The team now prepares for the significant challenge of advancing in the Europa Conference League.

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The European general rehearsal was successful.