Zoran Jovicic’s side played their best match in the competition so far, not giving Nimes a chance to come close. With strong defence and fast breaks, Gorenje Velenje secured an important home win ahead of the re-match, going a step closer to the quarter-finals. USAM Nimes Gard will have a tough job on their home ground in a week.

RK Gorenje Velenje (SLO) vs USAM Nimes Gard (FRA) 29:22 (15:12)

• USAM Nimes Gard’s coach Franck Maurice left the helm only a day ago, assistant coach Yann Balmossiere had his debut as head coach
• an even start in Slovenia, first team to take a more significant lead was Velenje
• Aljaz Panjtar was a real shot-stopper in first half with ten saves at 46 per cent efficiency which helped his team to keep the lead at half-time
• biggest gap between the teams was at the 52nd minute, Velenje set 27:18
• centre-back Domen Tajnik was Velenje’s top scorer with six goals, adding to his great assists
• the competition’s top scorer Mohammed Sanad scored nine, his tally now stands at 87

Defence makes a difference

Gorenje Velenje played very well at both ends of the court, however it was their defence giving their attack an added boost. Mainly, the 6:0 defence was hard a nut to crack for Nimes, but even when they managed to get through, Aljaz Panjtar came to the rescue. Slovenian goalkeeper maintained a high level throughout the match, allowing his team to create a big gap. Panjtar finished the night with 13 saves at 37 per cent efficiency.