NK Varteks Varaždin 3–1 Kustosija
International Club Friendly | 16 July 2026

NK Varteks Varaždin marked their return to pre‑season with a convincing 3‑1 victory over Croatian second‑tier side Kustosija in an international club friendly played on 16 July 2026. The match, held at the Stadion Varteks in Varaždin, served as an important fitness test for both squads as they build towards their respective domestic campaigns.

Match Overview

Varteks controlled the tempo from the opening whistle, using their superior possession to pin Kustosija back. The hosts’ high pressing forced several early turnovers, and it was no surprise when they broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute. A swift attacking move down the right flank ended with a low cross that was turned home by Varteks’ captain and striker, Ivan Krstanović, for his first goal of the pre‑season.

Kustosija responded well after the break, equalising just before the hour mark through a well‑struck volley from midfielder Luka Štiglić. However, Varteks restored their lead almost immediately. A defensive lapse allowed winger Marko Đira to cut inside and fire a left‑footed effort into the far corner.

Key Moments

• 23’ – Ivan Krstanović opens the scoring for Varteks with a clinical finish at the near post.
• 58’ – Kustosija level through Luka Štiglić’s volley after a corner was only partially cleared.
• 64’ – Marko Đira restores Varteks’ lead with a composed solo effort.
• 81’ – Substitute forward Domagoj Drožđek seals the win with a header from a pinpoint free‑kick delivery.

Tactical Story

Varteks lined up in a 4‑2‑3‑1 formation, looking to dominate the middle third. Their double pivot of Luka Celić and Ivan Tomečak shielded the defence effectively, allowing full‑backs to push forward. Kustosija, set up in a 4‑4‑2, tried to hit on the counter but struggled to maintain compactness when Varteks shifted the ball quickly from flank to flank.

The second half saw both sides make several substitutions, breaking the rhythm but giving fringe players valuable minutes. Varteks’ fitness advantage became clear in the final 20 minutes, as they pressed higher and created two clear‑cut chances before Drožđek’s decisive header.

Standout Players

• Marko Đira (Varteks) – The winger was a constant threat, scoring one goal and assisting another. His dribbling ability stretched the Kustosija defence.
• Ivan Krstanović (Varteks) – The experienced striker led the line well, holding up play and taking his goal with composure.
• Luka Štiglić (Kustosija) – Scored a superb equaliser and was the visitor’s most influential player in midfield.

Season Impact

For NK Varteks Varaždin, this friendly provides a positive result ahead of their upcoming league season in the Croatian Second Football League. Manager Nikola Šafarić will be encouraged by the team’s sharpness in attack and their ability to respond to adversity. Kustosija, meanwhile, will take heart from their spirited equaliser but will need to tighten up defensively if they aim to challenge for promotion in the Druga HNL.

The match also offered a glimpse of Varteks’ new signing, left‑back Mateo Bertoša, who looked composed in possession and linked up well with Đira. With further friendlies scheduled, both sides will continue to refine their systems before competitive action begins.