NK Publikum Celje delivered a statement performance with a resounding 3-0 victory over rivals Maribor in the Slovenia 1.Liga on September 28, 2025. The comprehensive win at Celje's home ground sent shockwaves through the league and marked a significant moment in the title race. Celje dominated from start to finish, scoring two early goals to take control and adding a third in the second half to complete the rout. Maribor, one of the league's traditional giants, was uncharacteristically poor and failed to register a single shot on target throughout the match. This result announced Celje as serious championship contenders and dealt a major blow to Maribor's own aspirations. The Celje manager described it as a perfect performance from his team, while the Maribor coach admitted his side was thoroughly outplayed in every department. The starting lineups highlighted Celje's energetic press against Maribor's experienced but sluggish side.