The footballers of Borac defeated Olimpija (1:0) in the first leg of the UEFA Europa Conference League round of 32.
It would have been a real shame if Borac hadn’t celebrated, but Sandi Ogrinec scored in the 90th minute, securing an advantage ahead of the return leg in Ljubljana. Despite the victory, it is clear that the second leg, scheduled for February 20, will ultimately determine which team advances among the top 16 in the youngest European competition.
A fantastic atmosphere was witnessed at City Stadium, with around 10,000 spectators, including over 1,000 Slovenians. The stadium erupted when a Slovenian player in Borac’s jersey secured the much-anticipated win.
The first half was relatively calm, with no significant chances, but the second half brought plenty of excitement.
In the 51st minute, Olimpija was reduced to ten men after Florut used his elbow in a duel, striking Karolina in the face. The referee, after consulting VAR, showed him a red card.
Borac immediately had a great chance—Despotović and Vuković found themselves in front of Vidovšek’s goal, followed by Savić, but their shots lacked precision, and Olimpija’s goalkeeper made crucial saves. Despite being a man down, Olimpija remained dangerous, but Borac’s goalkeeper Manojlović also performed excellently. Savić came close again, with his header missing the post by just a few millimeters.
The biggest chance of the match came in the 85th minute, when Despotović failed to convert a penalty. Olimpija’s goalkeeper Vidovšek made a fantastic save, denying the Banja Luka team’s forward.
A large number of Borac’s fans will travel to Stožice Stadium, hoping for another European miracle. The winner of this tie will face either Fiorentina or Rapid Vienna, depending on the draw.
Source: RTRS
