Former Kerala Blasters player Matej Poplatnik receives Slovenia NT call-up

Matej Poplatnik played for ISL outfit Kerala Blasters from 2018-2020.

Matej Poplatnik, the former Kerala Blasters forward, has received a significant call-up to the Slovenian National Team for an upcoming friendly clash against the USA Men’s National Team. The Slovenian football team will take on the USA in a friendly on 20th January in San Antonio.

Poplatnik, who plied his trade for Indian Super League (ISL) club Kerala Blasters FC, has currently been in scintillating form, catching the eye of national selectors with his goal-scoring prowess and impressive performances. He was rewarded by the Slovenian coach Matjaž Kek for his recent performances in the Slovenian league where he netted seven goals for NK Bravo.

Poplatnik was a part of Kerala Blasters from 2018-2020 and played a crucial part in their campaign by scoring four goals in 16 matches and creating 28 chances, leading his team to glory.

He left Kerala in 2020 and joined a Scottish top-division club Livingston FC. Recently, he has performed significantly for his current club NK Bravo in the Prva Liga. Slovenia announced their squad for their upcoming friendly encounter on 4th January. Matej Poplatnik was a substantial in the squad list.

Slovenian coach Matjaž Kek wants to take the encounter in San Antonio very seriously as it will help him and the players to prepare for Euro 2024.

“I am convinced that this action will bring some positive solutions for the upcoming national team season, culminating in the European Championship. On the other hand, it will also allow players to make an impression,” Matjaž Kek stated.

Slovenia’s squad for the upcoming friendly

Goalkeepers: Igor Vekič, Klemen Mihelak, Denis Pintol

Defenders: Mitja Ilenič, Žan Karničnik, Tine Kavčič, Srdan Kuzmic, Marcel Ratnik, Sven Šoštarič Karič, Žan Zaletel, Darko Zec

Midfielders: Adrian Zeljković, Zlatko Zahovič, Tamar Svetlin, Jan Repas, Timi Max Elšnik, Sandro Jovanović, Luka Vesner Ticic

Forwards: Danijel Šturm, Nejc Gradisar, Andrés Vombergar, Matej Poplatnik

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