NK Lokomotiva Zagreb used a strong second-half display to overcome Ukrainian side FK Epitsentr Dunayivtsi 3-1 in an international club friendly on 14 July 2026. The match, held at Lokomotiva’s training centre, served as a key part of pre-season preparation for both teams.

Match Report

Lokomotiva started brightly, dominating possession through midfield duo Josip Pivarić and Franko Mamić. Their pressure paid off in the 23rd minute when winger Luka Čop cut inside from the left and curled a shot into the far corner. Epitsentr, however, equalised just before the interval when a defensive mix-up allowed striker Andriy Bilyi to slot home from close range.

The second half saw Lokomotiva raise their intensity. Coach Silvijo Čabraja introduced fresh legs, and the changes bore fruit immediately. In the 62nd minute, substitute Antonio Marin latched onto a through ball and finished calmly. Seven minutes later, Marin turned provider, crossing for Roko Vulić to head in the third goal.

Tactical Notes

• Lokomotiva operated in a 4-3-3, pressing high and forcing errors from Epitsentr’s backline.
• Epitsentr’s compact 5-4-1 worked well in the first half but dropped below the required intensity after the break.
• The Ukrainian side’s lack of match fitness was evident in the final 20 minutes as they struggled to contain Lokomotiva’s pace.

Looking Ahead

Both teams continue their friendly schedules ahead of domestic league starts. For Lokomotiva, the result builds momentum after a solid pre-season, while Epitsentr will focus on sharpening defensive transitions before the Ukrainian Premier League campaign begins.