Nations League: Jankto and Belec both in action yesterday for Czech Republic and Slovenia

Blucerchiati rising stars Jakub Jankto and Vid Belec were both in Nations League action yesterday.

After losing their opening game in Group B to Ukraine, Jankto’s Czech Republic were in need of a win away to local rivals Slovakia. Goals from Michael Krmencik and former Samp striker Patrik Schick ensured a 2-1 victory at the City Arena in Trnava, with the hosts scoring through Marek Hamsik.

Jankto came on as an 89th-minute substitute to help secure the points and is in line for a starting spot against Ukraine in Kharkiv on Tuesday evening.

It wasn’t such an enjoyable evening for Vid Belec’s Slovenia, who were beaten 1-0 by Norway at the Ulleval Stadion in Oslo. Ole Selnaes got the only goal of the game deep into additional time at the end of the first half.

Slovenia are stuck on zero points in last place after three games and three losses. To avoid relegation in their next match, they must beat Cyprus on Ljubljana on Tuesday.