NK Aluminij Held to Frustrating Goalless Draw by ND Primorje in Slovenia 1.Liga

Kidričevo, Slovenia – May 17, 2026 – NK Aluminij missed a golden opportunity to climb the Slovenia 1.Liga standings as they were held to a 0-0 draw by a resilient ND Primorje side at the Športni park Kidričevo. The result leaves Aluminij searching for cutting edge in front of goal, while Primorje celebrated a hard-earned point on the road.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Aluminij controlled possession and created several half-chances, particularly through winger Luka Cvijanović. However, Primorje’s compact defensive block, orchestrated by center-back duo Marko Šušnjara and Jure Travner, proved difficult to break down. The home side registered 14 shots, but only 3 were on target, all comfortably saved by Primorje goalkeeper Nejc Vidmar.

Primorje, who entered the match on a three-match winless run, prioritized defensive solidarity and looked dangerous on the counter-attack. Striker Dejan Jović had their best opportunity in the 67th minute, but his close-range effort was brilliantly tipped over by Aluminij keeper Matija Kovačić.

Key Moments

• 32nd minute: Aluminij midfielder Matej Radan curled a free-kick just wide of the left post.
• 55th minute: A goalmouth scramble saw the ball hit the inside of the post before being cleared.
• 78th minute: Primorje’s Jović saw his header cleared off the line by Aluminij captain Žiga Žužek.

Tactical Battle

Aluminij’s usual high-pressing game was nullified by Primorje’s disciplined midfield trio, who sat deep and forced the hosts into crossing from wide areas. When crosses did come in, the visitors’ aerial dominance was evident, winning 72% of duels in the air. Aluminij coach Dejan Grabić switched to a 4-2-4 formation in the final 20 minutes, but Primorje retreated further and stifled any late pressure.

Standout Players

• Nejc Vidmar (Primorje): The goalkeeper was composed under pressure, making several smart saves and commanding his area well.
• Žiga Žužek (Aluminij): The home captain was a rock at the back, making vital interceptions and clearing off the line.
• Dejan Jović (Primorje): The forward was a constant nuisance, holding up play and creating the visitors’ best chances.

Impact on the Table

With the draw, Aluminij remain in 7th place, four points adrift of the European qualification spots. Primorje climb one spot to 9th, gaining breathing room above the relegation zone. Both teams will look to sharpen their attacking output in upcoming fixtures.