Slovenian team substitute their goalkeeper after just 20 seconds for brutal reason

Slovenian side NK Rogaska caused a few eyebrows to raise when they substituted their goalkeeper after just 20 seconds in their match against Olimpija Ljubljana on Sunday - and there is reportedly a brutal reason behind it.

The Slovenian First Division match ended 2-2 between the two sides, with second-placed Ljubljana ultimately dropping two points to the side that are currently bottom of the league.

But it was essentially a point gained, with the hosts having fallen to a surprise 2-0 deficit in the first half before former Derby forward Timi Elsnik pulled one back from the penalty spot.

Then, in added time, defender Marko Brest levelled the scores to ensure that Ljubljana at least kept some pressure on league leaders Celje, who were nine points ahead prior to their game kicking off.

But it was an early decision made by Rogaska that caused a stir on social media.

They gave a senior debut to 17-year-old goalkeeper Zan Lorber, with first-choice shot-stopper Rok Vodicek - once of Genoa - unavailable.

But rather than get an opportunity to show what he could do, Lorber was immediately substituted and replaced by Bosnian goalkeeper Adjin Mulalic, who the club signed on loan last month.

At this stage, you may be wondering why Mulalic didn't just start the game, given that he was available to play.

In 2022, the Slovenian FA confirmed that every team from its top division would have to field at least one player that has the right to play for the nation's under-21 side. In addition, each club must have eight home-grown players in their squad.

As a result, Rogaska started their 17-year-old goalkeeper, before immediately kicking the ball out of play in order to make the change.

Local outlet Football Planet report that the change was indeed made in order to comply with league regulations.

It is worth noting that Rogaska largely fielded a young side to take on Ljubljana, with no player aged over 27 and two Slovenian players aged 23 and 22.

But fielding Lorber meant they could successfully tick off a league rule - even if it may not have been the best confidence booster for the young goalkeeper.

Featured Image Credit: X/Twitter / SK1

Topics: Football

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.