HNK Capljina edged NK Neretva 3-2 in a frantic and exciting friendly that produced five goals and plenty of entertainment for the neutral. Played just after midnight, the match had an end-to-end feel that kept both benches engaged until the final whistle, with Capljina eventually doing just enough to claim the bragging rights.

Match Overview

The opening half-hour was chaotic. Capljina took an early lead only for Neretva to equalize minutes later, and the pattern repeated before the break as two more goals left the teams level at 2-2. The hosts thought they had gone ahead again just before halftime but saw their effort ruled out for offside.

The second half was more controlled, and Capljina’s decisive moment came midway through the period. A flowing move down the left produced a low cross that was guided into the net at the near post, making it 3-2. Neretva pushed forward in search of a late equalizer but found Capljina’s defense well organized and alert to the danger.

Goals and Drama

• 12' – 1-0: Capljina produce a clinical finish from the edge of the six-yard box.
• 18' – 1-1: Neretva respond immediately, heading in from a corner.
• 29' – 2-1: A low drive from the right restores Capljina’s advantage.
• 38' – 2-2: Neretva level again with a composed finish on the counter.
• 66' – 3-2: Capljina score what proves to be the winner with a close-range flick.

Friendly Verdict

This was the kind of open, high-intensity friendly that coaches love for fitness and sharpness. HNK Capljina will be pleased with their resilience after twice being pegged back, while NK Neretva showed plenty of attacking spirit but will need to tighten up defensively if they are to avoid such high-scoring games once competitive play begins.

With five goals scored, both sets of players got a thorough workout, and the manager of each side will have gained a clearer picture of their squad’s strengths and weaknesses ahead of the new campaign.