NK Aluminij and FC Dinamo City Play Out 1-1 Draw in UEFA Europa Conference League

Kidričevo, Slovenia – July 24, 2026 – Slovenian side NK Aluminij and Albanian visitors FC Dinamo City shared the spoils after a 1–1 draw in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League second qualifying round. Aluminij’s early lead was cancelled out by a second‑half equaliser, setting up an intriguing return leg in Tirana.

Match Overview

Aluminij started aggressively and took the lead in the 14th minute when midfielder Luka Šušnjara pounced on a loose ball inside the box to fire home. Dinamo City grew into the game as the half progressed, with striker Xhonatan Lala forcing a good save from Aluminij keeper Matej Radan in the 38th minute. The equaliser came in the 67th minute when Dinamo City captain Emiliano Vila curled a beautiful free‑kick over the wall and into the top corner from 22 yards. Both sides pushed for a winner in the final stages, but neither could find a decisive goal.

Key Moments

• 14th minute: Šušnjara reacted quickest to a rebound to open the scoring.
• 38th minute: Lala’s powerful shot was well saved by Radan.
• 67th minute: Vila’s stunning free‑kick levelled the tie.
• 82nd minute: Aluminij substitute Rene Mihelič saw his shot cleared off the line by a Dinamo defender.

Tactical Story

Aluminij’s 4‑2‑3‑1 allowed them to press high early, forcing Dinamo City into mistakes. After the equaliser, the Slovenians struggled to regain control as Dinamo’s midfield, led by Vila, dominated possession. Dinamo City’s defensive shape improved after the break, limiting Aluminij to long‑range efforts. The draw is a fair reflection of a game where both teams had spells of dominance.

Standout Players

• Luka Šušnjara (Aluminij): Scored the opener and worked tirelessly in midfield.
• Emiliano Vila (Dinamo City): Scored a brilliant free‑kick and orchestrated play from the middle.
• Matej Radan (Aluminij): Made two crucial saves to keep his side level.

Season & Table Impact

The 1‑1 draw gives Dinamo City a slight advantage with the away goal. The second leg will be played at the Air Albania Stadium in Tirana on July 31. The winner will face either Vojvodina or Ararat‑Armenia in the third qualifying round.