Fascinating Cup draw in Slovenia

The semi-final draw for the Slovenian Cup has thrown up two fascinating ties.

Giant-killers
The last remaining second division side NK Aluminij, who have already knocked out top-flight opposition in NK Mura in a previous round, have drawn NK Šmartno.

Surprise package
Šmartno, who are currently fifth, have been the surprise package of the Autumn section of the 1. SNL since winning promotion last year.

Managed to keep pace
The other semi pairs NK Maribor and NK Gorica. Both clubs are facing huge financial problems at present, though reigning champions Maribor have managed to keep pace with the league leaders NK Primorje, and currently lie third after the first part of the season. Gorica, who have had the better of the meetings between the two sides in the league with a win and a draw this year, have slipped down to ninth.

March date
The two-legged ties will be played on 20 March and 3 April next year.