Kazakhstan Suffer First Loss In UEFA Nations League
Slovenia Edge Out Kazakhstan In Nations League Clash
Late Šporar Goal Secures Victory For Visitors
The Kazakhstan national football team suffered their first defeat in the UEFA Nations League on Saturday, going down 2-1 to Slovenia in Nur-Sultan.
Andraž Šporar scored the winning goal for Slovenia in the 86th minute, after Miha Blažič had canceled out Baktiyor Zainutdinov's opener for Kazakhstan.
The result leaves Kazakhstan bottom of Group C4, with one point from three games, while Slovenia move up to second place, with four points.
Match Report
Kazakhstan made a bright start to the match and took the lead in the 26th minute through Zainutdinov.
However, Slovenia leveled the scores just before half-time, with Blažič heading home from close range.
The second half was a more cagey affair, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances.
However, Slovenia eventually found a winner late on, with Šporar firing home from the edge of the area.
Coach Quotes
Kazakhstan coach Magomed Adiyev said: "I am disappointed with the result, but I am proud of my players' performance.
"We played well for long periods of the game, but we made some mistakes that cost us the match."
Slovenia coach Matjaž Kek said: "I am delighted with the win.
"We knew that Kazakhstan would be a tough opponent, but we showed great character to come back from behind and win the game."
Comments