NK Publikum Celje 1–2 FC Koper: Late Drama Decides Slovenian 1.Liga Clash

In a tense encounter at Stadion Z’dežele on May 16, 2026, FC Koper snatched a vital 2–1 victory over NK Publikum Celje in the Slovenian 1.Liga. The away side showed resilience after falling behind early, turning the match around with two second-half goals to claim three crucial points in the mid-table battle.

Match Overview

Celje started brightly and took a deserved lead in the 22nd minute when striker Aljoša Matko fired home from close range after a corner kick was only partially cleared. The home team dominated possession in the first half, with Koper struggling to create clear chances. However, the visitors regrouped at halftime and emerged with a more aggressive pressing game.

Key Moments

• 22' – Goal Celje: Matko’s instinctive finish gives the home side the lead.
• 58' – Equalizer: Koper’s winger Ivica Guberac cuts inside and curls a precise shot into the far corner.
• 78' – Winning goal: Substitute Luka Šušnjara heads home from a free kick to complete the comeback.
• 90+2' – Red card: Celje’s defensive midfielder David Zec receives a second yellow card for a late tackle.

Tactical Story

Celje’s initial 4-2-3-1 formation allowed them to control the midfield, but Koper’s switch to a more direct 4-4-2 after the break disrupted the home side’s rhythm. The visitors exploited space behind Celje’s full-backs, with both goals coming from wide areas. Koper’s defensive discipline also improved, limiting Celje to only one shot on target in the second half.

Standout Players

• Ivica Guberac (Koper): The winger’s equalizer and constant threat on the counter made him a key figure.
• Aljoša Matko (Celje): Scored the opener and worked tirelessly despite limited service after halftime.

Season Impact

With this win, FC Koper moved into sixth place in the 1.Liga standings, keeping their hopes of a top-half finish alive. Celje, meanwhile, remained in eighth, now five points adrift of the European qualification spots. The result also extended Koper’s unbeaten run against Celje to three matches in the league.