FK Epitsentr Dunayivtsi edged past NK Brinje Grosuplje 3-2 in an entertaining International Club Friendly at the Brinje Stadium on July 21, 2026. The Ukrainian side showed composure after twice being pegged back, securing a morale-boosting victory in front of a modest crowd.

Match Overview

Both teams used the friendly to fine-tune tactics ahead of their respective domestic campaigns. The first half saw an open, end-to-end contest with plenty of attacking intent. FK Epitsentr took the lead in the 23rd minute through a sharp finish from forward Oleksandr Tymchenko, who latched onto a through ball and slotted past the home goalkeeper.

NK Brinje responded well, equalising just before the half-hour mark. A well-worked corner found defender Luka Mlakar, who headed in from close range. The sides went into the break level at 1-1.

Second Half Drama

The visitors regained the lead shortly after the restart. Midfielder Serhiy Kovalchuk unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box that gave the Brinje keeper no chance. However, the Slovenian hosts showed resilience once more. In the 67th minute, winger Nejc Zupančič cut inside and curled a beautiful effort into the far corner to make it 2-2.

With the match seemingly heading for a draw, FK Epitsentr found a late winner. Substitute striker Artem Bondarenko capitalised on a defensive mix-up in the 82nd minute, poking home from six yards out. Brinje pushed forward in stoppage time but could not find a third equaliser.

Standout Players

• Oleksandr Tymchenko (FK Epitsentr) – A constant threat down the left, he scored the opener and provided the assist for the winner.
• Nejc Zupančič (NK Brinje) – His equaliser was a moment of individual brilliance, and he caused problems all evening with his dribbling.
• Artem Bondarenko (FK Epitsentr) – The impact substitute proved decisive with his late goal.

What It Means

For FK Epitsentr Dunayivtsi, the win builds confidence as they prepare for the new season in the Ukrainian Second League. The squad displayed character in coming from behind twice and then holding on under pressure. NK Brinje Grosuplje, competing in the Slovenian Third League, will take positives from their attacking play but will need to tighten up defensively after conceding three times.

Both managers rotated heavily, giving minutes to fringe players and testing different formations. The friendly served its purpose, offering valuable fitness work and a competitive edge without the pressure of points at stake.