RK Nexe were not going to let RK Gorenje Velenje surprise them for a second time in the group phase of the EHF European League Men 2021/22.
On Tuesday evening, although Velenje kept up for 45 minutes, Nexe's superior strength in the final 15 minutes earned them their fourth win in group C, 31:23. Halil Jaganjac was once again the leader on the court for Nexe, proving his importance to this team.
GROUP C
RK Nexe (CRO) vs RK Gorenje Velenje (SLO) 31:23 (14:9)
- before the match Nexe lost Alen Blazevic who now joins a long list of injured players; Velenje travelled without Aljaž Panjtar and Domen Tajnik
- the home side lost goalkeeper Moreno Car in 24th minute due to injury after he had made seven saves. Dominik Kuzmanovic took over and ended with eight saves
- Nexe made a strong start and led from the beginning. Their biggest lead in the first half was six goals mainly powered by Halil Jaganjac
- Velenje found their rhythm again in the first 10 minutes of the second half with saves by Emir Taletovic, but Nexe quickly recovered their dominance
- Nexe made a decisive five-goal run at 53rd minute of the match
Goalkeeper duo
Nexe’s strength is their attack, but their defence and two goalkeepers were always there when needed. Moreno Car has proven to be crucial for the team so many times, and tonight’s seven saves were another sign of his importance until he went off injured.
Dominik Kuzmanovic replaced Car. The 19-year-old Croatian junior international has had to wait for his chance since he joined in the summer. His patience paid off as he took his chance with eight saves.