NK Celje secured its place in the third round of the UEFA Champions League qualifiers after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Albania's Egnatia. The match, played at Stadion Z'dežele in Celje, ended with a scoreline of 2:2 after extra time, followed by a 4:1 win in the penalty shootout. This result ensures the Slovenian champions will face Armenian side Ararat in the next stage of the competition. The match lasted nearly five hours, including two legs totaling almost five hours, marking a historic achievement for the club. The first leg took place in Tirana, where Egnatia led 3:2 after 90 minutes before the game was drawn 3:3. The return fixture saw Celje take control in the second half, with Mario Kvesić scoring twice, once in regular time and once from the penalty spot. However, Egnatia equalized through Gerald Smajli in extra time, forcing the match into penalties. Celje’s players were flawless in the shoot-out, while their opponents missed two crucial chances, securing the team’s progression. The match attracted around 3,470 spectators, creating an electric atmosphere at the stadium. Despite the long duration and intense nature of the encounter, the Celje squad showed resilience and composure under pressure. Coach Vitor Campelos acknowledged the challenges faced by his team, particularly the lack of physical readiness among some players and the need for better tactical adjustments. He emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and improving defensive stability moving forward. Albert Riera, a former coach of NK Celje and currently a spectator, was present at the match. His presence added another layer of significance to the occasion, given his legacy within the club. While Campelos did not comment directly on Riera’s influence, he noted that the team needed to continue building upon this success and preparing for future challenges. The victory marks a new chapter in Celje’s European campaign, ensuring they will compete in the group stages of the Champions League for the third consecutive season. The financial rewards for qualifying are substantial, with an estimated €18.6 million prize pool available should they progress further. Additionally, the club has already signed new reinforcements, including Benjamin Verbič, who is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s performance in upcoming matches. Looking ahead, Celje faces a challenging schedule, starting with a derby against Maribor on Saturday before traveling to Armenia for their clash with Ararat. The team must maintain consistency and improve their overall performance to ensure continued success in European competitions. With key players like Kvesić and Svit Sešlar showing promise, the club appears poised for a successful campaign. The match against Egnatia highlighted both the strengths and weaknesses of the Celje squad. While the offensive line demonstrated capability, the defense struggled at times, allowing Egnatia to capitalize on opportunities. Campelos stressed the need for greater cohesion and improved decision-making, especially in critical moments of the game. As the club prepares for the next phase of its European journey, the focus shifts to ensuring that the momentum gained from this victory continues. With the support of fans and the addition of new talent, NK Celje aims to make a lasting impact in the Champions League. The upcoming fixtures will test the team’s resolve and ability to perform consistently under pressure, setting the stage for what could be a memorable season in European football.
13 reports
Slovenske noviceIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 858 days ago Too many goals, too much stress: the Celtics in the first match of the second qualifying round of the Champions League played 3-3Slovenski nogometni prvak Celje je v prvem tekmo 2. kola kvalifikacij za ligo prvakov (LP) zmagovito nasledil albanski prvak Egnatijo z rezultatom 3:3. Tekma je bila zelo nepredvidljiva, saj so Celjani najprej zaostajali, nato dvakrat zapravili vodstvo. Strelca za domače so bili Mario Kvesić (2) in Armandas Kučys. Trener Vitor Campelos in njegovi pomagali so ocenili tekmo kot neuspešno, ker so Celjani pokazali slabše stranske zadeve, kot so obramba, usklajenost in tehnične sposobnosti. Ključna težava je bila v obrambi, kjer so okrepitve še vedno le številke. Klub je v prvih dveh tekmah prejel pet golov, kljub dobrim izvedbama vrata Žana Luk Leban. Odsotnost osrednjih igralcev obrambe je hendikep, ki ga trener še ni rešil. Navijači so pričakovali več od novih igralcev, kot so bili Leonardo Koutris, Yaya Dukuly in Alpha Dionkou.
Bias read (Center): Artikel analizira tekmo nogometnega kluba Celje v kvalifikacijah za ligo prvakov, kar spada pod športsko tematiko. Tematska področja, kot so igra, strategija in ocene trenerja, ne vključuje političnih ali družbenih napetosti. Strokovni pregled igre in ocene igralcev ne predstavljajo političnega stva
Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports the match outcome (3:3 draw between Celje and Egnatia), mentions the scorers (Mario Kvesić and Armandas Kučys), and provides specific details about the game flow, including the team's performance and quotes from players. The information aligns with the cross-source con
Why objectivity (85): The article presents a somewhat critical view of Celje's performance while acknowledging the positives. It uses phrases like 'stresnega dvoboja' and 'daleč od ambicioznega cilja,' which may slightly lean toward negativity but remain within reasonable bounds of objective analysis.
VečerIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 859 days ago Damjan Vuklišević after the rematch in Albania: If we want to progress, we have to go head-onDamjan Vuklišević, branilec nogometne reprezentante Celja, je po remiju v Albaniji opozoril, da morajo igralci zmanjšati število prejetih golev, da bi napredovali. Tekma je zaključila z 3:3, s počasi spreminjajočim se vodstvom. Vuklišević je primerjal trenutno situacijo z začetnim izhodiščem, kar kaže na težave z zbranostjo v obrambi. Povratni obračun bo prihodnji torek ob 20.15, kjer bo Celje tekmo proti Egnatiji, s katero bo odločilo svoje mesto v tretjem krogu kvalifikacij za LIGO prvakov.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a sports match and does not involve any politically charged subject matter. The content is purely about a football game, player performance, and team strategy, which falls under the 'SPORTS' category. There is no indication of political bias or framing, making the lean 'CENTER
Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports the match outcome (3:3 draw), the sequence of events including goals by Enea Bitri and Mario Kvesić, and quotes from Damjan Vuklišević regarding the team's performance. It provides specific details about the match timeline and player actions, aligning closely with the
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a relatively neutral tone, focusing on the match events and player statements. However, it includes some evaluative language such as 'tekma vzponov in padcev' (a game of ups and downs) and mentions the team's defensive issues, which slightly leans toward commentary rather than
24ur (POP TV)IndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 759 days ago Vuklišević after a tense rematch: In Celje we will have to go to the 'head'The Slovenian football team from Celje drew 3-3 against Egnatia in Albania during their second qualifying match for the Champions League. Despite scoring three goals, Celje struggled defensively, conceding multiple goals and failing to maintain leads throughout the game. Captain Mario Kvesić led a strong comeback in the first half, but defensive lapses allowed Egnatia to equalize repeatedly. Defender Damjan Vuklišević acknowledged the team's defensive issues, stating they need to improve significantly to advance in the competition. He emphasized that despite being favorites, the team needs to focus on reducing conceded goals if they hope to progress further.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on a sports match between two football teams, discussing performance, strategies, and player quotes. There is no political framing, commentary, or reference to political figures, policies, or controversies. The content remains strictly focused on the game itself and does't
Why factuality (90): The article correctly summarizes the match result and highlights key moments like Mario Kvesić’s contribution and the defensive struggles. It also includes direct quotes from Vuklišević. However, it lacks some specific details about the match timeline compared to the first article, though this does
Why objectivity (75): The article has a more interpretive tone, emphasizing the defensive weaknesses and using phrases like 'trd oreh' (hard nut) to describe Egnatia. This framing subtly suggests the team faces challenges, which may introduce a slight bias in interpretation.
Slovenske noviceIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 802 days ago They survived and wrote a new chapter in history, with Albert Riera in the stands watching the fight.Celje, slovenski nogometni prvaki, so si zagotovili najmanj tretjo zaporedno evropsko jesen v konferenčni ligi, po petih urah tekme proti albanskomu prvaku Egnatia, kjer je končala z 4:1 po strelih z 11-m. Tekma je trajala skoraj tri ure, s srečnim koncem (1:1 po 90 minutah, 2:2 po 120 minutah). Klub je v tretjem poskusu preskočil drugi krog kvalifikacij za ligo prvakov. 34-letni Mario Kvesić je zabil 4 gole za Egnatii, medtem ko so dvema albanskima streliščem z 11-m zgrešila vrata. Na stadionu Z'dežele se je zbralo 3470 navijačev. Klub bo naslednjo veliko evropsko tekmo igral proti armenskemu prvaku Araratu, kar bo v torek. Trener Vitor Campelos je visel zaradi neuspešnosti v uporabi moštvu, kljub temu pa so selektorji poudarili, da so nekatere igralce izpustili, kar je povzročilo težave. Dinamo je v Zagrebu do 74. minute zaostajalo z 0:2 proti Thunu, a je z zmago v podaljšku napredovalo v tretji krog kvalifikacij za LP. Jon Gorenc Stankovič je igral do 81. minute.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a sports event and does not involve any politically charged topics such as government, elections, or public policy. The content is purely about a football match and related team performances, which falls under the 'SPORTS' category. As such, there is no political charge, and a
Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports the match result, the number of spectators, and the significance of the victory for Celje. It aligns with other sources regarding the match details and implications.
Why objectivity (80): The article presents the information objectively, focusing on the match outcomes and implications without showing clear bias or emotional language.
24ur (POP TV)IndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 804 days ago The winner will be awarded the 11-meter (2:2) *The article reports on a football match between NK Celje and NK Egnatia, which ended in a 2:2 draw after extra time. The game saw several key moments, including goals from Mario Kvesić (two times), Darko Hrka, and Geralb Smajli. The match was marked by intense competition, with both teams scoring multiple times. Notable incidents included controversial decisions such as a penalty awarded to Celje in the 95th minute, which was converted by Kvesić. The referee, Joey Kooij, oversaw the match, having previously officiated other European competitions.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a straightforward account of a football match without any overt ideological or political framing. It focuses solely on the game's progression, player actions, and match outcomes, without commentary on broader social or political issues.
Why factuality (85): The article provides detailed match events and scores, matching the consensus from other sources. It accurately describes the timeline of events during the match.
Why objectivity (80): The article remains objective in its reporting, detailing the match events without showing favoritism or emotional language.
DeloIndependent🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 804 days ago The big all-nighter after the eleven-metre dramaThe Celje football club faced a dramatic match against Egnatia in Albania during their UEFA Europa League qualifying round. The game ended in a 6-3 victory for Celje after extra time, with the decisive moments coming from penalty kicks. Despite a strong start by Egnatia, who led early in the match, Celje managed to equalize through a goal by Mario Kvesić and eventually took control in the second half. The match was tightly contested, with both teams showing resilience, but Celje secured their place in the next round of qualifiers thanks to their successful penalties. This win ensures Celje will compete in European competitions this autumn.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on a sports event—specifically a football match between two clubs—and does not involve any political figures, policies, or contentious issues. There is no framing or slant present since the content is purely descriptive of the match and its outcome.
Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports the match results, player performances, and the implications for Celje's future matches. It aligns with other sources regarding the match details.
Why objectivity (80): The article maintains an objective tone, focusing on the match details and outcomes without showing bias or emotional language.
RTV Slovenija (MMC)State / PublicCenterFactual 85Objective 805 days ago All set for the fight that will set the tone for the rest of the season.The Slovenian football team from Celje is preparing for a crucial return match against Egnatia in the UEFA Europa Conference League qualifiers. The first leg ended in a 3-3 draw in Albania, and the team is focusing on improving their defensive performance. Coach Vitor Campelos emphasized the need to address weaknesses exposed in the first game, particularly against Egnatia's long passes and interruptions. Forward Mario Kvesić noted that having more time to prepare due to the rescheduling of a domestic league match helped reduce nerves. Despite the high stakes, the team views the opportunity to compete in Europe as a privilege rather than pressure. The second leg will take place at the Z'dežela stadium on Tuesday at 20:15.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on sports, specifically a football match in the UEFA Europa Conference League. There is no political content, framing, or bias present in the reportage. It provides straightforward information about the team's preparation, coach's comments, and player perspectives without
Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports the match result and the players' reactions. It includes specific details about the match and the players' strategies, which are consistent with other sources.
Why objectivity (80): The article presents the information objectively, focusing on the match outcomes and player statements without showing clear bias or emotional language.
Siol.netState / PublicCenterFactual 85Objective 8012 days ago The Celts learned who they would have a re-examination with in EuropeThe article discusses the potential next steps for NK Celje in European football competitions after their exit from the Champions League qualifiers against Albanian side Egnatia. If Celje lose this round, they would advance to the third qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League. The article outlines the matchups for the third round of Europa League qualifiers, including teams from various countries such as Iceland, Israel, Serbia, Greece, and others. It notes that if Celje progress, they would face the loser of the match between Icelandic club Vikingur and Israeli team Hapoel Beer-Sheva. The matches are scheduled for August 6th and 13th.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on sports outcomes and does not involve any political figures, policies, or contentious issues. There is no framing or slant detectable in the content.
Why factuality (85): The article provides accurate information about Celje's potential next opponent if they fail in the second round, including specific matchups and teams involved. This matches the consensus from other articles.
Why objectivity (80): The article maintains a neutral tone, focusing on facts and possible scenarios without showing bias toward either team or outcome.
RTV Slovenija (MMC)State / PublicCenterFactual 80Objective 753 days ago The season is over, but above all, the new reinforcements will have to contribute moreThe article discusses NK Celje's successful advancement to the third round of the UEFA Europa League qualifiers after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Albanian champions Egnatia. The team secured at least one group stage appearance in the Conference League, along with a financial reward of at least €3.6 million from UEFA. Despite this achievement, the team struggled during the 120 minutes of regulation play, showing signs of fatigue and lacking creativity. Key players like Mario Kvesić were highlighted for their performance, while the club announced plans to strengthen the squad with new signings such as Benjamin Verbič and goalkeeper Igor Vekič. Coach Vitor Campelos expressed satisfaction with progressing to the next round but acknowledged the need for improvement, especially ahead of upcoming matches against Maribor and Armenian side Ararat.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on sports content—specifically football match outcomes, player performances, and team strategies—with no mention of politics, officials, or public policy. There is no framing or slant detectable in the reporting.
Why factuality (80): The article correctly states that Celje advanced to the third round and mentions the financial implications of the UEFA competition. It also references new signings, which are consistent with other sources.
Why objectivity (75): The article has a slightly positive tone towards Celje, especially highlighting their success despite challenges, which may indicate a subtle bias.
Slovenske noviceIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 754 days ago Celtic are chasing history with €18.6 million and the Champions League is only 90 minutes away.The article discusses Celje's third attempt in six years to qualify for the Champions League, which began stressfully and unpredictably in Albania. Despite not losing to Egnatia, the 3-3 draw and defensive instability raised concerns ahead of their return match at the Zdježele stadium. The potential financial reward for qualifying is significant, with at least 18.6 million euros, while a loss could still mean progression compared to previous European seasons. The piece also mentions other Slovenian players competing in European matches and highlights past performances by Celje in qualification rounds. Mario Kvesić, who scored two goals against Egnatia, notes that the team has laid the groundwork for future success and expects a more disciplined performance.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on sports-related content, specifically football qualifications and player performances, without any overt political framing or ideological slant. It provides factual updates on matches, financial implications, and player insights without taking a clear partisan stance.
Why factuality (80): The article correctly describes the match result and the importance of the upcoming game. It mentions the financial stakes and the players' perspectives, which align with other sources.
Why objectivity (75): The article shows a slight positive bias towards Celje, emphasizing their potential and the importance of the match without overtly favoring one side.
24ur (POP TV)IndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 7512 days ago The Celts are confident that the remi against Mura will help them against Egnatia.The Slovenian football team Celje has entered the new season with cautious optimism after drawing their first match against Mur, which they managed to secure with a hard-fought point. Despite this result, head coach Vitor Campelos remains confident ahead of their upcoming clash with Egnatia, emphasizing the need for maximum effort and aggression during their European competition matches. He acknowledges lessons learned from their previous encounter with Egnatia, where Celje won 4-2 in Albania but drew 0-0 at home. Campelos highlights the importance of being prepared for Egnatia’s direct style of play, reliance on set pieces, and long balls, stating that his team is ready to counter these tactics effectively. The two matches in the second qualifying round of the Champions League will be broadcast on Kanalu A and VOYO.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on sports content—specifically a football match and related commentary—without any political implications or controversy. There is no mention of politics, officials, or policies, making the subject apolitical.
Why factuality (80): The article correctly describes the match result and Celje's progression to the third round. It includes specific details like the score and the number of goals scored by Mario Kvesić, which are consistent with other sources.
Why objectivity (75): The tone is slightly opinionated when stating 'Celjani niso blesteli' (Celje didn't shine), indicating a critical view of their performance. However, it remains mostly factual.
DeloIndependent🔒CenterFactual 75Objective 703 days ago The whole thing could be better, but without the TikTokers.The Slovenian football champions Celje secured their third consecutive European campaign by drawing 1-1 with Albania's Egnatia after extra time, with the match ending 4-1 on penalties. The result ensured their place in the next round of qualification for the Champions League. Despite this achievement, coach Vitor Campello emphasized that Celje need to improve significantly ahead of their upcoming match against Armenian champions Ararat. The team faces another challenge in the form of a large Styrian derby at home before their crucial European encounter.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on a sports event and does not involve any politically charged subject matter. It provides a factual report on a football match outcome and future fixtures without taking a stance or using biased language.
Why factuality (75): The article accurately reports that Celje secured their place in European competition but did not perform impressively against Egnatia. It mentions the scoreline and the subsequent match against Ararat, aligning with other sources. However, some details like 'Albert Riuera' being a spectator are not
Why objectivity (70): The tone is somewhat biased towards the team's performance, using phrases like 'niso blesteli' (they didn't shine) which implies criticism. The article also emphasizes the need for improvement without presenting opposing viewpoints.
Siol.netState / PublicCenterFactual 70Objective 8011 days ago After Šporar, in the fight for the league champion, Gorens Stanković also scores #liveThe article reports on the second round of qualification matches for the Champions League, focusing on Slovenian football clubs participating in European competitions. It highlights the match between Slovenian champions Celje and Albanian club Egnatia, noting that Celje has a strong chance of advancing due to their early success in the qualifiers. The piece also mentions other Slovenian players like Miha Zajc at Dinamo Zagreb, who expressed his desire to play in the Champions League, and Erik Janža with Gornik Zabrze. The article provides background on past performances and future expectations for these teams in their European campaigns.
Bias read (Center): The article presents information about football matches and player aspirations without taking a clear ideological stance. It focuses on sports performance, team strategies, and player ambitions, which are typically considered apolitical topics. There is no evident bias toward any particular ideology
Why factuality (70): The article provides general information about the match but lacks specific details about the scoreline or key events. It focuses more on broader context, such as Celje’s participation in the qualifiers and mentions of other Slovenian players abroad. The lack of detailed match coverage reduces its f
Why objectivity (80): The article remains largely objective in its description of the event, providing background on Celje’s participation and mentioning other Slovenian players. However, it introduces additional context about other teams and players, which may shift focus away from the main event being reported.