Timeline of Slovenia vs Portugal Football Matches
The footballing histories of Slovenia and Portugal, two UEFA member nations, have intersected on several notable occasions. This timeline highlights the key encounters between these two national teams, providing context and outcomes that have added layers to their respective football narratives. Both nations have distinct footballing traditions, with Portugal historically recognized as a powerhouse in European football and Slovenia carving out its own successes since its independence in the early 1990s.
1999: The First Encounter
Slovenia and Portugal first met on October 9, 1999, during the qualification campaign for the UEFA Euro 2000. The match was played at Estádio da Luz in Lisbon. Portugal, boasting a strong squad with players like Luis Figo and Rui Costa, was a formidable opponent for the relatively young Slovenian national team. The game ended in a 2-0 victory for Portugal, with goals from Abel Xavier and João Vieira Pinto. This match marked the beginning of on-pitch interactions between the two nations, with Portugal demonstrating its competitive edge.
2000: Euro 2000 Qualification Return Leg
The return leg of the Euro 200