Match Summary
Celje and Apoel Nicosia drew 2:2. The match was played in UEFA Europa Conference League 2024. Goals were scored by A. Kučys 2′, D. Abagna 32′, Armandas Kučys 59′, A. Kučys 59′, K. Laifis 70′. 6 yellow cards were shown, 1 red cards. Celje had 60% possession while Apoel Nicosia held 40%. Celje had 7 shots (5 on target) compared to 7 (5 on target) for Apoel Nicosia. Expected goals: Celje 1.11 — Apoel Nicosia 0.42. Celje made 4 substitutions, Apoel Nicosia made 4.
Match Events
Key match events between Celje and Apoel Nicosia — 5 goals and 7 cards recorded during the match.
assist: S. Sešlar
assist: S. Dražić
Missed Penalty
assist: Sergio Tejera
Match Statistics
Celje had 60% possession against Apoel Nicosia's 40%. Celje registered 7 shots (5 on target) while Apoel Nicosia managed 7 (5 on target). Corner kicks: 2–2. Fouls committed: 17–17.
Lineups
Celje lined up in a 4-1-4-1 formation under Albert Riera, while Apoel Nicosia deployed a 5-3-2 under Manolo Jiménez.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Celje is 7.21, compared to 7.00 for Apoel Nicosia. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Celje's highest-rated starter is M. Zabukovnik (7.70), while Apoel Nicosia's best-rated player is S. Dražić (7.13).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Celje have contributed 4 goals and 3 assists this season, led by M. Kvesić (2G). Apoel Nicosia's starters account for 6 goals and 1 assists, spearheaded by S. Dražić (5G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Celje deploy 4 defenders rated 7.05 on average, against Apoel Nicosia's 5-man backline averaging 7.03. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Celje field 5 midfielders averaging 7.46, versus Apoel Nicosia's 3 rated 6.78. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Celje start 1 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 2 for Apoel Nicosia averaging 7.13. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 88% for Celje and 43% for Apoel Nicosia. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Celje's starters have collected 8 yellow cards this season, compared to 5 for Apoel Nicosia. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Celje's starting XI is 28.6 (youngest: Ł. Bejger (23), oldest: M. Kvesić (33)), while Apoel Nicosia average 31.8 (youngest: D. Abagna (27), oldest: V. Belec (35)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Celje's starters average 9 league appearances each, versus 17 for Apoel Nicosia. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Celje have recorded 3 wins, 0 draws and 3 defeats. Apoel Nicosia show 3 wins, 0 draws and 3 losses from their last 6 outings.
Celje
Apoel Nicosia
API data: 15 Mar 2026