Slovan Bratislava vs Celje

Slovan Bratislava and Celje shared the points in an entertaining Champions League play-off opener at Tehelné pole, with Roman Čerepkai marking his first goal for the club before the visitors hit straight back before halftime. Čerepkai broke through in the 15th minute after Slovan dominated the early exchanges, only for Milot Avdyli to punish a defensive lapse and level things up in the 41st. Bookings flowed on both sides, with Kenan Bajrič and Avdyli cautioned either side of the break, followed by late yellows for César Blackman and Mark Zabukovnik as chances came and went without either side finding a winner. The draw leaves the tie finely balanced. Slovan will feel they should have made their first-half control count, while Celje head home with real belief after weathering the storm and grabbing a crucial away goal ahead of the second leg on 26 August at Stadion Z'dežele.