Koper starts Slovenian league season with routine win over Nafta

Koper began their new Slovenian First League season with a convincing 2-0 victory over Nafta 1903 in Lendava. The visiting team, considered one of the title favorites, secured their first three points of the campaign with a composed and disciplined performance.

Nafta, making their return to the top flight, had an early chance in the first minute when Josip Zorica found the net, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Koper then asserted control, dictating the tempo and creating several dangerous opportunities. Their pressure paid off in the 28th minute when Karim Manseri scored, following a well-worked play and an assist from veteran Josip Iličić, giving Koper the lead.

In the second half, Koper continued to manage the game effectively. Nafta occasionally threatened on counter-attacks but struggled to break through Koper's organized defense. A penalty was awarded to Koper in the 50th minute after Leo Rimac fouled Rok Pirtovšek in the box, but the decision was overturned after a video review. Despite the home crowd's support, Nafta lacked the decisive finishing touch to equalize.

Koper ultimately sealed their win in second-half stoppage time. Blessing Irabor scored the final goal on a swift counter-attack, making the score 2-0. Coach Zoran Zeljković's team justified their favorite status with a mature display. While Nafta showed fighting spirit upon their return to the elite league, they will be looking for their first points in the upcoming rounds. The league's first round continues with matches between Celje and Mura on Friday evening.