Match Report: Radnik Krizevci 0-2 Varteks Varazdin

Varteks Varazdin strengthened their promotion push in the Croatian Second Football League with a commanding 2-0 victory away to Radnik Krizevci on 23 May 2026. The visitors produced a disciplined performance at Stadion Radnik, scoring once in each half to secure three crucial points and maintain pressure on the league leaders.

First Half: Varteks Dominate Possession

From the opening whistle, Varteks Varazdin seized control of the midfield. Their crisp passing and high pressing forced Radnik Krizevci into defensive errors. The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when a well-worked move down the right flank ended with winger Marko Pavičić slotting the ball past home goalkeeper Ivan Horvat. The goal was a product of sustained pressure, and Radnik struggled to create any clear chances before the interval.

Second Half: Visitors Seal the Win

Radnik Krizevci emerged after the break with renewed energy, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. However, Varteks remained compact and dangerous on the counter-attack. In the 67th minute, a defensive lapse allowed Varteks striker Luka Novak to race through one-on-one and calmly finish into the bottom corner, doubling the lead.

The home side had no response, and Varteks comfortably managed the remainder of the match, keeping Radnik's attackers at bay with solid defending from centre-backs Josip Babić and Ante Radić.

Key Moments

• 32' – Marko Pavičić opens the scoring with a clinical left-footed strike from inside the box.
• 67' – Luka Novak capitalises on a misplaced back-pass and doubles Varteks' advantage.
• 81' – Radnik's best chance: a header from substitute Filko Matić flies just over the bar.

Standout Performers

Varteks' midfield trio of Ivan Lendrić, Matej Jurić, and the influential Dominik Farkaš dictated the tempo throughout. Defensively, Ante Radić made key interceptions and won every aerial duel. For Radnik, goalkeeper Ivan Horvat made several smart saves to keep the scoreline from becoming more lopsided.

Table Impact

The victory propelled Varteks Varazdin into second place in the Croatian Second Football League standings, just two points behind the leaders with only three matches remaining. Radnik Krizevci, meanwhile, remain in mid-table, their slim playoff hopes fading after this defeat. With promotion at stake, every point counts as the season reaches its climax.