NK Varaždin continue their Croatian First Football League campaign with an away match against NK Rudes in the fifth round. The game is scheduled for Saturday, 21 November 2026, at the Kranjčevićeva stadium in Zagreb, and the Varaždin side enters the match as the favourite due to better form and league position.
Before this round, NK Varaždin holds third place in the HNL with nine points from four matches played. The team has three wins and one defeat, with a goal difference of 9:5. This is a solid start to the season that keeps them right in the mix for European places. In contrast, hosts NK Rudes are in ninth place with just three points, one win and three losses, having conceded a hefty 13 goals. This statistic clearly points to defensive issues for the Zagreb club, presenting an opportunity for Varaždin's attackers.
The current league standings can always be checked on our standings page.
Varaždin averages 1.8 goals scored per match in their last five outings. Simultaneously, they concede an average of 1.4 goals per game. This shows a relatively balanced team that knows how to score but also has room for improvement in defence. Rudes, on the other hand, averages 1.4 goals scored and a concerning 2.8 goals conceded per match in the same period. This contrast in defensive efficiency will be a key factor in Saturday's encounter.
The hosts will welcome Varaždin at the Kranjčevićeva stadium in Zagreb. The match is set for an 11:00 AM kick-off. This early start could influence the atmosphere and rhythm of play, posing a challenge for both teams. For Varaždin, who have shown character on the road this season, this is another chance to prove their concentration and readiness regardless of external conditions.
Following this trip to Zagreb, NK Varaždin's schedule includes a series of important fixtures. The full match calendar can be followed on our fixtures page. Currently, the squad has a solid core without major injuries, giving the manager full freedom in selecting his lineup for the upcoming challenges. The team squad is always available for review on the squad page. The next match after Rudes will be another important test in the effort to maintain a high position in the league table.
