FK Nove Zamky and FC Artmedia Petrzalka played out a frantic 3-3 draw in the Slovak Cup, setting up a dramatic conclusion to a wildly entertaining cup tie. The second-round match on 2 September 2026 had a bit of everything: early goals, defensive mistakes, a spirited comeback, and late drama that left the outcome in the balance until the final whistle.

Match overview

Artmedia Petrzalka arrived as the favourites, carrying the reputation of a club with rich Slovak football history. Nove Zamky, playing in front of their home supporters, proved they would not be overawed. The first half produced an explosion of attacking play, with both teams sharing four goals and leaving the scores level at the interval. The pace rarely dropped in the second half, as Nove Zamky struck again only for Artmedia to respond with a third equaliser in a pulsating finale.

With a knockout cup tie unable to remain all square after 90 minutes, the match moved into extra time and eventually a penalty shootout, ensuring that someone would leave the field with Slovak Cup progression secured. The fact that the contest required such a resolution underlined how evenly matched the two sides were on the night.

Key moments

• Quick-fire start: Both teams found the net inside the opening exchanges, signalling that defences would be in for a long evening.
• Impressive response: Artmedia twice took the lead but Nove Zamky showed excellent character by levelling on each occasion.
• Late drama: The final 3-3 scoreline was only reached after both teams traded blows in the closing stages of regulation, forcing the shootout.

Player standouts

The match was full of attacking intent. Nove Zamky’s forward line caused consistent problems with direct running and clever combination play, while Artmedia’s midfield dictated spells of possession whenever the visitors needed to calm the game down. Goalkeepers on both sides had considerable work, though the sheer volume of goals inevitably kept the spotlight on the attackers.

For neutral supporters, the tie was a classic Slovak Cup encounter — unfashionable teams, no shortage of ambition, and an atmosphere that highlighted why cup competitions continue to matter so much in Slovak football. Both clubs will now turn their attention to domestic duties, while one will go on with the confidence of surviving a genuine cup thriller.