Celje 1-2 Slovan Bratislava: Martinez extra-time strike sends Slovakian side to UCL group stage (full match highlights)

On August 26, 2026, at the Z'dežele Stadium in Celje, Slovenia, Slovan Bratislava secured a come-from-behind 2-1 victory over Celje in the return leg of the UEFA Champions League playoff round. After a 1-1 draw in the first leg, the Slovakian side advanced to the group stage thanks to an extra-time goal. The referee blew the starting whistle at 22:00 Moscow time. The visitors opened the scoring in the 18th minute: Andraž Šporar fired into the far corner after a pass from Kenan Bajrić — 0-1. In the 16th minute, Pijus Širvys received a yellow card. Celje equalised in the 34th minute: Svit Sešlar fired home from inside the box to make it 1-1. In the 54th minute, Sandru Cruș received a yellow card, followed by Milot Avdyli's booking in the 59th, and Artemijus Tutiškinas's yellow in the 84th minute. The match ended 1-1 in regular time, and the tie was decided in extra time. In the 100th minute, Cristian Martínez scored the winning goal after a pass from Nino Marcelli — 1-2. In the 118th minute, Benjamin Verbič received a yellow card, followed by Andrej Kotnik's booking in the 120th, and Svit Sešlar's yellow in the 120+2nd minute. Match statistics: Celje had 51% possession, recorded 12 shots on goal compared to Slovan's 13, and completed 76% of their passes against Slovan's 74%. Slovan Bratislava showed character and snatched the victory in extra time, securing their place in the Champions League group stage. Celje, meanwhile, missed their chance to qualify, disappointing their fans.