Football team sub off 17-year-old keeper just 20 SECONDS into match thanks to ‘ridiculous’ rule
A TEAM in Slovenia subbed off their teenage goalkeeper just 20 seconds into a match due to a bizarre rule.
The incident occurred during Sunday’s top flight clash between NK Rogaska and Olimpija Ljubljana.
Bottom of the table Rogaska started 17-year-old Zan Lorber in goal, with the youngster making his senior debut.
However, the visitors almost immediately kicked the ball out of play in order to make a substitution.
Just 20 seconds into the match, Lorber was replaced by recent loan signing Adjin Mulalic.
The decision was due to a bizarre league rule in Slovenia which has been in place since 2022.
Top flight clubs must include a player eligible for the country’s under-21 side in their starting line-up.
Teams are also required to name eight home-grown players in their squad.
Despite not starting any players over the age of 27, Lorber had to start for Rogaska to comply with the regulations.
Fans were confused by the rule on social media, with one branding it “ridiculous”.
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Another added: “What sort of rule is that?!”
A third supporter also wrote: “Feel sorry for him.”
Meanwhile, one more commented: “This is ridiculous.”
Rogaska had raced into a 2-0 first half lead against second placed Olimpija after the early substitution.
They were pegged back late on, though, with a 92nd minute equaliser forcing them to settle for a point.