Jan Mlakar (foto: pigac.si)
Slovenian striker Jan Mlakar delivered the crucial three points for Slovenia in Kazakhstan today.
The hero for Slovenia was Jan Mlakar. The striker scored a stunning goal in the second half, playing a key role in securing three points on the road in Kazakhstan. The Pisa player was pleased with the win after a poor performance in Norway, though he agrees that Slovenia didn’t start the match well. The team also faced some challenges with the pitch conditions.
"After the match in Norway, it was important to give the right response. Only a win would do, and that’s how we approached the game. It wasn’t an easy away match; we had to give everything, and fortunately, it worked out. We didn’t start the game well, the Kazakhs were more lively. The pitch was tough, every ball was fast. It’s a tricky team that combines well and plays quick counterattacks."
The assist for Mlakar’s goal came from full-back Erik Janža. After the match, Mlakar described what was going through his mind right before the shot:
"I was just thinking about how to control the ball after Janža’s pass. Then I was able to strike it with my second touch—thank God it ended like that."
The 25-year-old Jan Mlakar scored his fourth goal for the senior national team today. He first donned the national team jersey in 2021.