Maribor visited Rogaška Slatina after more than 30 years and had to settle for a point: Rogaška gave vijolični a tough time
Photo: NK Maribor
The first Sunday match of the 23rd round of the Slovenian league took place in Rogaška Slatina, where the resurgent Rogaška hosted the currently hot Maribor. Spectators witnessed several dangerous actions and opportunities, but no goals. Rogaška, which has already taken a point from Olimpija this year, remained unbeaten against Maribor, who visited Rogaška Slatina for the first time since 1993, ending in a 0:0 draw.
Maribor’s coach, Ante Šimundža, made an expected move after a hectic schedule in recent times and just 66 hours after the last game. Josip Iličić, who had scored in all matches played before this year, was benched. Maribor sorely missed the former international, as well as Arnel Jakupović, who also had to sit on the bench. Without their stars, the violets couldn’t find the right rhythm, a lot contributed to it being the spirited, organized Rogaška, once again confirming that they are much better after the winter break than in the opening part of the season.
The first half saw a very balanced game without real chances, but it seemed that Rogaška was slightly closer to scoring. Patrik Mijić once again confirmed good form, causing trouble for the Maribor defense, missing the suspended Lan Vidmar, and Luka Uskoković played for the first time this year. However, the Montenegrin had no luck and later had to leave the field injured. In the second half, Maribor pressed the gas a bit more, with an incredible chance wasted in the 60th minute when Maks Barišić kicked the ball into the crossbar instead of an empty net. Hillal Soudani could have scored from the rebound, but the Rogaška defense intervened in time.
Šimundža then activated Iličić only in the 77th minute, but although the experienced player had the ball a few times, it wasn’t enough for Maribor. Ajdin Mulalić, who replaced young Žan Lorber after 40 seconds this time, remained unbeaten, and the match ended 0:0.
This text was automatically translated using AI.
Author: editorial Football Planet
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