Šampion Celje vs Dobrovce - 3. SNL - East

The 3. SNL - East returns to the home ground on September 19, 2026, where Šampion Celje and Dobrovce will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Jorge Salinas is of interest to Manchester United(Image: 2024 Soccrates Images B.V.) United are one of several Premier League clubs weighing up whether to meet Bologna’s €25m (£21.7m) valuation for Jhon Lucumi, according to Corriere di Bologna.

Šampion Celje head into the contest positioned 11th in the 3. SNL - East standings, while Dobrovce arrive sitting 13th. Šampion Celje are still searching for momentum, LWLDL in their last five and a season win rate of just 20%. The visitors arrive short of confidence, LWLLL in their last five and a season win rate of just 20%. The contrast in attacking output — 2 versus 1.2 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Those who followed Morocco's recent World Cup campaign will recognise the name Ayyoub Bouaddi.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Šampion Celje may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Dobrovce have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. It isn't clear yet that this will definitely be a winger, with Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana flexible over their attack.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. The reigning champions made it four wins from four in the league and are yet to concede a goal in their title defence.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Backed by home advantage and superior form, Šampion Celje ought to prevail — a 2-1 victory looks the logical call. With positions in the 3. SNL - East table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. The club are understood to favour a profile closer to Aurelien Tchouameni or a Premier League‑proven alternative rather than Manu Kone.