UEFA Europa Conference League – Qualifying Round

NK Varteks Varaždin 3-2 FK Jablonec: Home Side Edges Five-Goal Contest

NK Varteks Varaždin claimed a narrow first-leg advantage with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Czech Republic's FK Jablonec at the Stadion Varteks. The Croatian side showed resilience after twice being pegged back, securing a crucial win in front of their passionate home supporters.

Match Overview

The hosts started brightly and took the lead inside ten minutes through a clinical finish from striker Marko Tolić. Jablonec responded before the break, equalising through a penalty from midfield anchor Tomáš Hübschman. The second half saw Varaždin regain the lead via a header from defender Luka Jelenić, only for Jablonec to level again through winger Jakub Považanec. The decisive moment came in the 73rd minute when Varaždin's substitute Ivan Rogač fired home from the edge of the box.

Key Moments

• 9' – Tolić opens the scoring after a neat one-two in the box.
• 42' – Hübschman converts a penalty after a handball in the area.
• 58' – Jelenić heads in from a corner to restore Varaždin's lead.
• 66' – Považanec slots home after a defensive mix-up to make it 2-2.
• 73' – Rogač scores the winner with a powerful low drive.

Tactical Story

Varaždin employed a direct approach, using long balls and set-pieces to trouble the Jablonec defence. The Czech side, meanwhile, tried to play through midfield but often found themselves caught on the counter. Both teams showed a willingness to commit players forward, which led to an entertaining but open game.

Standout Players

Marko Tolić was a handful for the Jablonec defence all night, scoring one and assisting another. For the visitors, Tomáš Hübschman marshalled the midfield and scored from the spot, but his team's defensive lapses proved costly.

Looking Ahead

Jablonec will be confident of overturning the deficit at home, where they have a strong record. However, Varaždin's two away goals give them a cushion, and they will look to counter-attack effectively in the return leg. The tie is far from decided, but the Croatian side have the edge.