Head coach Sergej Barbarez and his players agreed the team showed progress compared to the previous game, with a serious approach and commitment laying the groundwork for future performances: “I just told them in the locker room - they got a big round of applause from me. They gave everything they had. It’s the end of the season, there’s fatigue, high temperatures… but the desire was there. Slovenia’s a serious opponent with a stable coach who’s been there for seven, eight, nine years. Nothing happens overnight, it takes time.

The difference was they scored, and we didn't. We had four or five clear chances and that gives me reason to be pleased. Every man gave his best and that’s what I want to see. That’s the national team culture we have to build."

Tarik Muharemović scored his first goal for the team: " It’s a beautiful feeling scoring your first goal for the A team, that’s a moment I’ll always remember. We played well, had more chances, but Slovenia converted theirs. I was really motivated today, wanted to prove myself and earn my place in the qualifiers ahead."

Arjan Malić started another match in the first eleven: "We played a much better game than against San Marino, the intensity was higher. We had good chances and I think we made a step forward overall. Unfortunately, the result didn’t go our way, but had we taken even one of those chances – it could’ve been different."

Luka Kulenović fought hard against Slovenia’s defense: " There were a lot of good things compared to the San Marino match, especially in that drive the coach always emphasizes. We conceded goals from individual mistakes, but our approach and energy were good. The first half was demanding also because of the weather, and in the second we took control over the game. There’s definitely a lot of positives to take away."