

NK Dugo Selo put in a dominant performance to beat Zapresic 3-0 in the Croatian Second Football League on Saturday, 26 September 2026. Three unanswered goals, spread across both halves, gave the home side a convincing win and a welcome boost in their league campaign.
Match Overview
From the first whistle, NK Dugo Selo looked sharper and more decisive. They moved the ball quickly, pressed Zapresic high up the pitch, and created several early opportunities. The opening goal arrived inside the first twenty minutes, and it set the tone for a match in which the hosts rarely looked troubled.
Zapresic tried to respond by tightening up defensively and looking for counter-attacking chances, but they struggled to keep the ball long enough to build any sustained pressure. Dugo Selo added a second before half-time, and a third goal in the second half effectively ended the contest. The home side managed the closing stages professionally, keeping a clean sheet and securing a comfortable three points.
Key Moments
- First half, 17th minute: NK Dugo Selo open the scoring with a well-placed shot from the edge of the area.
- First half, 38th minute: A second goal doubles the lead after a flowing team move down the right.
- Second half, 67th minute: The hosts make it 3-0 with a header from a corner.
- Clean sheet: Dugo Selo's defence stays alert to preserve the shutout.
Tactical Story
NK Dugo Selo lined up with a high-tempo 4-3-3, pressing Zapresic's back line and forcing errors. Their midfield three were constantly on the front foot, winning the ball back and immediately looking to play forward. The wingers hugged the touchline to stretch the opposition, while the striker made intelligent runs into the channels, pulling defenders out of position.
Zapresic attempted to sit deeper and absorb pressure, but they struggled to cope with Dugo Selo's movement. When they did win possession, their transitions were too slow, allowing the home side to recover their defensive shape. The third goal, from a corner, was a fair reflection of the home team's dominance in both open play and set-pieces.
Standout Performers
The NK Dugo Selo midfield ran the show, combining energy with composure on the ball. The goalscorers were clinical, and the full-backs contributed heavily to the attack with overlapping runs and accurate deliveries. The centre-back who scored the third goal was a rock at the back, winning everything in the air. For Zapresic, their goalkeeper made several saves to prevent a heavier defeat, and their young substitute showed some promising touches late on.
Season Impact
This 3-0 win strengthens NK Dugo Selo's position in the Croatian Second Football League and gives them momentum for the fixtures ahead. A clean sheet and three goals will please the coaching staff, especially as it came against a side looking to climb the table. Zapresic, meanwhile, will need to work on their defensive shape and ball retention. The result leaves them with valuable lessons to take into their next match as they look to bounce back quickly.