After 24 years, the Slovenian national football team has successfully navigated the qualifying rounds to become one of the 24 European teams competing in Germany for the title of Europe's best. This is a remarkable achievement for the green country in the very heart of Europe, which has previously only been represented at one European Football Championships and two World Cups. The football euphoria in Slovenia has intensified even more as Slovenian players have proved that they can compete with the best. For the first time in history, Slovenia managed to reach the round of 16, only to be beaten by Portugal on penalties. Nevertheless, the Slovenian national team impressed with their heartfelt play, as did their passionate fans, cheering their heroes in the stands.
The Slovenian national football team certainly left a good impression in Germany, attracting even more interest in Slovenia among the European public. Find out some interesting facts about the performances of Slovenian footballers, the fans and, in general, about a country that lives and breathes sport.
The Slovenian national football team made a good impression at Euro 2024 in Germany, despite being knocked out in the round of 16. They advanced from Group C without a defeat.
Slovenia vs England 0:0
The match against Portugal in the round of 16 was even right up until the penalty kicks. Regular time and extra time ended 0–0. The most memorable moment for football fans was when Slovenian goalkeeper Jan Oblak made a superb defensive move, saving a penalty from star Cristiano Ronaldo. Slovenian footballers proved that they are not afraid of big names in a friendly match against Portugal before the championship, when they surprisingly beat the star team 2–0 in the packed Stožice Stadium.
Unfortunately, things didn't work out for Slovenia at EURO 24. Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa dashed Slovenia's dreams of progressing to the quarter-finals after saving three penalties in a shootout.
Photo: NZS
Slovenia's performances at the Euros, and in particular the match against Portugal, have attracted a lot of media attention. The historic round of 16 match generated more than 12 million EUR worth of coverage of Slovenia in the most prestigious global media in just two days. The football spectacle strengthened Slovenia's reputation as a country of superb athletes and passionate fans. Take a look at some of the most high-profile coverage of this match in prominent foreign media.
Photo: NZS
Now even the birds seem to be chirping about football as the world's number one pastime! And the UEFA European Championship in Germany is no exception. With the Slovenian national team's reappearance at the Euros, interest in football in Slovenia has grown even more and turned into a real euphoria. After the Slovenian national football team's elimination in the round of 16 match, we are not only proud of our boys, but also proud of the numbers, which show that there is a great interest in both Slovenian football players and Slovenia. Here are some of the most noteworthy statistics.
Slovenia's international footballing fairytale began in 2000, when the Slovenian national team, led by coach Srečko Katanec, qualified for a major tournament for the first time in the country's history – the European Championship in the Netherlands and Belgium. Two years later, Slovenia's golden generation reached another milestone by qualifying for the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan. After a decade-long hiatus, the Slovenian team made a comeback at South Africa 2010, this time with coach Matjaž Kek at the helm. Under Kek's leadership, the young Slovenian national team set a new milestone in the history of Slovenian football, winning their final qualifying match against Kazakhstan in front of 16,400 fans at Ljubljana's Stožice Stadium last November and earning Slovenia a new place among Europe's footballing elite. The Slovenian national football team made a good impression at Euro 2024 in Germany, despite being knocked out in the round of 16. They advanced from Group C without a defeat.
Photo: NZS
More than two-thirds of the population exercise at least a few times a week, and even the youngest children are encouraged to take part in sport. This passion for sport is evident in the country's many outstanding athletes, who consistently win high accolades in major competitions. Slovenia boasts legendary sporting names, including several elite footballers who have made a name for themselves playing for top European clubs and representing the Slovenian national team. Notable names include Brane Oblak, Marko Elsner, Srečko Katanec, Zlatko Zahović and, more recently, Jan Oblak, who is recognised as one of the best goalkeepers in the world. Experience the vibrant sporting spirit of Slovenia!
Photo: NZS
Slovenia is known both for its world-class athletes and for its passionate fan base who are always there to cheer their heroes to victory. This was also evident at the European Championships in Germany, where the crowds of Slovenian fans were chanting "If you're not jumping, you're not Slovenian!" and other fan slogans.
A picture says more than a thousand words. Here are some of the most popular and interesting posts from the Slovenian national team and its fans from the European Football Championship in Germany.
Slovenian footballers have already had the opportunity to experience first-class hospitality at European and World Cups, but their home country also has extensive experience in hosting various international competitions at the highest level, including the European Under-21 Championship in 2021. The country's first-class organisation of such events has been widely praised. Slovenia's sports and other infrastructure ensures high-quality training, rehabilitation and event facilities for athletes.
MoreSlovenian footballers have already had the opportunity to experience first-class hospitality at European and World Cups, but their home country also has extensive experience in hosting various international competitions at the highest level, including the European Under-21 Championship in 2021. The country's first-class organisation of such events has been widely praised. Slovenia's sports and other infrastructure ensures high-quality training, rehabilitation and event facilities for athletes.
MoreSlovenia is a haven for active travellers, with a diverse and breathtaking landscape that offers a wide range of outdoor adventures. Intertwining mountain paths and scenic hiking trails take you to some of nature's most beautiful corners. Extensive cycling routes traverse idyllic landscapes, while white-water rapids promise thrilling adventures and adrenaline-pumping experiences.
It's amazing how much such a small country has to offer. You're bound to meet hikers, cyclists and runners in Slovenia, because Slovenians are passionate about the great outdoors. Along the way, you'll find delicious local food and cosy places to stop and rest. And the beauty doesn't stop at the countryside – Slovenia’s towns and cities are steeped in history and culture, making every visit an enriching experience. Experience all that Slovenia has to offer and feel the vibrant spirit of this beautiful country!
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