Teenage goalkeeper subbed off 20 seconds into match in bizarre league rule
In Slovenia, a top-flight football team made an unprecedented substitution that left fans bewildered. In a surprising turn of events, the goalkeeper, Zan Lorber, was subbed off just 20 seconds into the game against Olimpija Ljubljana.
The Unusual Substitution
During the match between NK Rogaska and Olimpija Ljubljana, Rogaska made a rather unconventional decision. The bottom-of-the-table team started 17-year-old Zan Lorber in goal, marking his senior debut. However, the visiting team immediately kicked the ball out of play to make a substitution. As a result, Lorber was replaced by recent loan signing Adjin Mulalic after just 20 seconds of play. This unprecedented substitution raised many eyebrows, leaving fans and spectators alike perplexed.
The Bizarre League Rule
This eyebrow-raising action was no mistake. Instead, it was a result of a bizarre league rule that has been in place in Slovenian football since 2022. According to the rule, top-flight clubs are obliged to include a player eligible for the country’s under-21 side in their starting line-up. In addition to this, teams are also required to name eight home-grown players in their squad. Hence, despite the youthfulness of their squad, Rogaska had to start Lorber to comply with these unusual regulations.
Fan Reactions
The fans were quick to express their confusion and disbelief on social media platforms. One fan labeled the rule as “ridiculous,” while another questioned the logic behind such regulations. Meanwhile, the sympathizing reactions poured in for the unfortunate teenage goalkeeper who was subject to the bewildering substitution. The social media sphere was abuzz with comments denoting disbelief and bewilderment regarding this unique league rule.
Match Outcome
Despite the early substitution, Rogaska managed to take an early 2-0 lead against the second-placed Olimpija. However, their fortune took a turn for the worse, with Olimpija securing a 92nd-minute equalizer, forcing Rogaska to settle for a point.
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