NK Maribor vs NK Olimpija Ljubljana Prediction: Both teams may score in this game

When it comes to Slovenian football, few fixtures generate as much anticipation as NK Olimpija Ljubljana versus Maribor. The stakes are high, the rivalry intense, and the quality on display is consistently top-tier. On March 9, 2025, these two powerhouses collide once more, with Maribor looking to extend their strong home form and Olimpija determined to make a statement on the road.

Maribor has been a fortress at home, boasting a record of three wins in their last four league matches while scoring an average of 2.5 goals per game. Their efficiency in front of goal is unmatched, with Benjamin Tetteh and El Arbi Hillel Soudani leading the charge. Defensively, they have been rock solid, conceding just 0.8 goals per game. Their ability to maintain control and limit opposition chances has made them formidable at Ljudski vrt.

Olimpija has demonstrated resilience away from home, securing two victories and a draw in their last four away fixtures. Their attack has been spearheaded by Raul Florucz, who has netted 11 goals this season, making him a constant threat. Despite their attacking capabilities, they have shown occasional defensive lapses, which could prove costly against a ruthless Maribor attack.

With both teams evenly matched in quality, this clash promises a thrilling spectacle. Olimpija’s ability to control possession and create chances will be tested against Maribor’s defensive rigidity and counter-attacking prowess. The key battles in midfield and in the final third will likely determine the outcome of this highly anticipated encounter. Given the stakes, expect an electric atmosphere and a contest filled with drama, tactical battles, and moments of brilliance.

NK Maribor

Maribor’s season has been a masterclass in consistency, particularly at home, where they have suffocated opponents with their defensive discipline and lethal finishing. They have scored 43 goals in 23 league appearances, averaging nearly two goals per game, while conceding just 19 times. This balance between attack and defense has propelled them into contention for top honors.

Their attacking threat is undeniable, with Benjamin Tetteh and El Arbi Hillel Soudani combining for 11 goals. Meanwhile, creative mastermind Jan Repas leads the assist charts with six decisive passes. Defensively, Gregor Sikošek has been pivotal in organizing the backline, ensuring that Maribor remains one of the most difficult teams to break down in the league.

With their home crowd behind them, Maribor will look to assert their dominance early. If they capitalize on Olimpija’s occasional defensive frailties, they could well extend their impressive home form and secure another statement victory.

NK Olimpija Ljubljana

NK Olimpija Ljubljana enters this fixture knowing that they have the firepower to trouble Maribor, but questions remain about their ability to maintain defensive solidity. They have secured two away victories in their last four matches, scoring an average of 1.5 goals per game, but their defensive record of 0.8 goals conceded per away fixture suggests they are vulnerable against top-tier opposition.

Raul Florucz has been their standout performer, netting 11 goals in 21 appearances. His ability to find space and finish clinically makes him a major threat. Supporting him is Ivan Durdov, who has contributed four goals, while Jorge Silva’s three assists highlight his playmaking abilities. Olimpija thrives on possession-based football, but their success will depend on how well they handle Maribor’s aggressive pressing and swift counterattacks.

To get a result, Olimpija must tighten up defensively and be ruthless in front of goal. If they execute their game plan effectively, they could disrupt Maribor’s rhythm and snatch a valuable result.

Expert Betting Tips

This matchup presents an intriguing tactical battle. Maribor’s superior home form and defensive stability give them an edge, but Olimpija’s attacking threat means they cannot be underestimated. The key lies in Maribor’s ability to neutralize Florucz while exploiting Olimpija’s occasional lapses in defensive organization.

If Maribor can dictate the tempo early and remain compact at the back, they should have enough to edge out Olimpija in what promises to be a hard-fought contest. However, should Olimpija’s attacking stars find their rhythm, this game could turn into a high-scoring thriller.

Predicted score: Maribor 2-1 NK Olimpija Ljubljana

Based on the predicted score above, below are my predictions for the game:

My first prediction is BTTS for odds of 1.87 at Betway

My second prediction is over 2.0 goals for odds of 1.67 at Bet365

My final prediction is W1 to win for odds of 2.70 at 1XBet