FC St. Pauli 2–1 HNK Gorica | International Club Friendly | July 19, 2026

Match Report

FC St. Pauli wrapped up their pre‑season preparations with a hard‑fought 2‑1 victory over Croatian side HNK Gorica at the Millerntor‑Stadion. The Bundesliga 2 outfit used the fixture to fine‑tune their shape ahead of the new season, and they showed encouraging signs of chemistry in attack.

First‑Half Dominance

St. Pauli started brightly and took the lead inside 12 minutes when a slick passing move sliced open the Gorica defence, allowing striker Erik Ahlstrand to slot home from close range. The German side continued to press and doubled their advantage before the break with a powerful strike from outside the box.

Second‑Half Response

Gorica, competing in the Croatian Prva HNL, emerged with renewed purpose after the interval. They pulled a goal back in the 58th minute through a well‑executed counter‑attack, but St. Pauli’s defensive organisation held firm. The visitors pushed for an equaliser in the final quarter of an hour, but the home side’s back four, anchored by experienced captain Jackson Irvine, stood tall.

Pre‑Season Implications

• St. Pauli head into the new Bundesliga 2 campaign with a 100% pre‑season record and growing confidence in their attacking transitions.
• HNK Gorica gained valuable minutes against a physically strong opponent, continuing their own preparations for the Croatian top flight.

Both managers will have noted positives and areas for improvement as the competitive season draws closer.