NK Celik Zenica kicked off their preseason campaign with an emphatic 4-0 victory over FK Zvijezda 09 in an International Club Friendly on July 17, 2026, at their home ground. The result offers a clear statement of intent from the Bosnian top-flight side, showcasing sharp finishing and defensive solidity against a lower-division opponent.

Match Overview

Played under the floodlights in Zenica, the friendly served as an early fitness test for both sides. Celik dominated from the first whistle, controlling possession and creating several clear-cut chances. Zvijezda 09, a club from the second tier, struggled to contain the home team’s attacking tempo and rarely threatened the Celik goal.

First Half: Celik Take Control

The home side opened the scoring inside the first 20 minutes with a well-worked team goal down the right flank. A sharp cross was met by a forward who slotted home from close range. Celik doubled the lead shortly before half-time when a midfield runner broke the offside trap and finished calmly past the Zvijezda goalkeeper.

Second Half: Clinical Finishing Seals the Win

Celik maintained their intensity after the break, adding a third goal on 55 minutes from a set piece. A corner was headed powerfully into the net, leaving the visiting defence static. The final goal arrived in the 78th minute as a substitute striker latched onto a long ball and chipped the keeper to complete a comfortable 4-0 victory.

Standout Performers

• Home team’s No. 9: Scored twice and held the ball up intelligently, troubling the Zvijezda centre-backs all evening.
• Left winger: Provided two assists and was a constant threat with his pace and dribbling.
• Central defender: Kept a clean sheet with composed distribution and timely tackles.

Season Context

For NK Celik Zenica, this dominant display builds momentum ahead of the upcoming Bosnian Premier League season. The 4-0 win highlights the team’s tactical discipline under their coaching staff and suggests they are on track to compete strongly in domestic competitions. FK Zvijezda 09, meanwhile, will take lessons from the friendly as they prepare for their own league campaign in the Prva Liga FBiH.

Preseason results should always be taken with caution, but Celik’s performance was sharp enough to excite supporters ahead of the competitive fixtures.