Luka Zahović Rescues a Point for Maribor in Tense Eternal Derby

Luka Zahović Rescues Maribor in a Tense Eternal Derby at Stožice

The first Eternal Derby of the 2026/27 Prva Liga Telemach season ended without a winner. Olimpija Ljubljana took the lead through Jošt Urbančič late in the first half, but Luka Zahović responded in the 85th minute to earn Maribor a 1–1 draw at Stožice.

The two greatest rivals in Slovenian football entered the fifth-round encounter in contrasting moods. Maribor arrived in Ljubljana unbeaten and at the top of the table, while Olimpija were searching for a response after losing three of their opening four league matches.

Olimpija Show an Early Response

Despite their difficult start to the season, Olimpija opened the derby with energy and determination. The home side appealed for a penalty following an early mistake by Žan Karničnik, but the referee allowed play to continue.

Dino Kojić and Kristjan Bendra then attempted to threaten the Maribor goal, although neither player managed to produce the finishing touch required to break the deadlock.

Maribor gradually settled into the match and began to enjoy more possession, but the visitors struggled to create clear opportunities. Jan Mlakar almost benefited from a mistake by Olimpija goalkeeper Matevž Vidovšek, while Karničnik later sent an effort over the crossbar.

Urbančič Breaks the Deadlock

The first half was briefly interrupted after pyrotechnic devices were thrown from the stands. Once play resumed, Olimpija found the breakthrough deep into stoppage time.

Dimitar Mitrovski delivered the ball into the penalty area, where Jošt Urbančič reacted well in front of Ažbe Jug and finished to give the Dragons a 1–0 advantage. It was Urbančič’s second league goal of the season and provided Olimpija with a valuable lead before the break.

Maribor Push for an Equaliser

The visitors returned for the second half with greater attacking urgency. Žiga Repas came close shortly after the restart, sending a shot narrowly wide from the edge of the penalty area.

Maribor controlled more of the possession as the match progressed, but Olimpija defended with discipline and prevented the league leaders from creating many clear chances. For long periods, it appeared that Urbančič’s goal would be enough to secure an important victory for the Ljubljana club.

Zahović Strikes in the 85th Minute

Maribor’s persistence was finally rewarded five minutes before the end. Nejc Viher played the ball behind Olimpija’s defensive line, allowing Luka Zahović to remain composed and finish past Vidovšek for the equaliser.

Zahović’s late goal silenced the home crowd and ensured that Maribor left Stožice with a point. Olimpija attempted to respond during the closing minutes, but neither side found a winning goal.

A Fair Result in Slovenia’s Biggest Match

The 1–1 draw was a fair reflection of a competitive but cautious derby. Olimpija produced a much-improved performance and came close to securing only their second victory of the season, while Maribor demonstrated character by recovering from a goal down.

Maribor remained unbeaten after five league rounds and temporarily preserved their position at the top of the Prva Liga Telemach table. Olimpija collected their fourth point of the campaign but remained in the lower part of the standings.

Match Details

• Competition: Prva Liga Telemach – Round 5
• Date: 15 August 2026
• Venue: Stožice Stadium, Ljubljana
• Result: Olimpija Ljubljana 1–1 Maribor
• Goals: Jošt Urbančič 45+6' (Olimpija), Luka Zahović 85' (Maribor)

Sources: Sportklub, FotMob