NK Varteks Varazdin 3-2 FK Jablonec: Croatian Comeback Stuns Czech Visitors

NK Varteks Varazdin produced a stunning second-half comeback to defeat FK Jablonec 3-2 in a thrilling UEFA Europa Conference League qualifier on July 24, 2026. After trailing 2-0 at the break, the Croatian side roared back to claim a vital first-leg victory at the Stadion Varteks, putting themselves in a commanding position for the return leg in the Czech Republic.

Match Overview

The match started disastrously for the home side as FK Jablonec raced into a two-goal lead inside 20 minutes. Varazdin looked shell-shocked and struggled to find their rhythm in the first half. However, a tactical change at halftime and a fired-up crowd of over 8,000 supporters sparked a remarkable turnaround. Three unanswered goals in the second period saw Varazdin snatch the win, leaving Jablonec with everything to do.

Key Moments

• 8th min: Jablonec striker Tomáš Čvančara latched onto a through ball and slotted past the Varazdin goalkeeper to make it 1-0.
• 20th min: A set-piece routine saw defender David Hovorka head home a corner to double the visitors' lead.
• 45+2 min: Varazdin had a goal disallowed for offside, keeping the score at 2-0 at halftime.
• 52nd min: A long-range strike from midfielder Luka Stojanović deflected past the Jablonec goalkeeper to pull one back for Varazdin.
• 68th min: Substitute forward Marko Tolić equalised with a close-range finish after a goalmouth scramble.
• 83rd min: Tolić struck again, this time with a header from a free kick, to complete the comeback and send the home fans into delirium.

Tactical Story

Varazdin started in a conservative 5-4-1 formation but were overwhelmed by Jablonec’s quick passing and movement. After the break, manager Nikola Šafarić switched to a more aggressive 4-3-3, pushing full-backs higher and pressing Jablonec’s defence. This change immediately unsettled the Czech side, who struggled to cope with the increased intensity. Varazdin’s second goal came from a set piece, but the third was a well-worked move that exposed Jablonec’s defensive disorganization.

Standout Performers

• Marko Tolić (NK Varteks Varazdin): The super-sub scored two goals and changed the game after coming on at halftime. His movement and finishing were impeccable.
• Luka Stojanović: His goal from distance sparked the revival and he was a driving force in midfield throughout the second half.
• Tomáš Čvančara (FK Jablonec): He was a constant threat in the first half, scoring one and creating the other. His influence waned as Varazdin dominated.

Impact on the Tie

NK Varteks Varazdin take a 3-2 lead into the second leg. The away goal for Jablonec means the tie is far from over, but Varazdin’s momentum and home support will give them confidence. For Jablonec, the collapse is a severe setback. They must now win by at least one goal at home, and with Varazdin having shown their attacking prowess, a tactical adjustment will be required.