NK Varaždin has taken top spot in the SuperSport HNL with a win over Rudeš and has signed a new goalkeeper. The club defeated Rudeš 2:0 in the fifth round at the Varteks stadium and subsequently officially presented former Rangers keeper Robby McCrorie.
How did Varaždin overcome Rudeš?
According to a report by Jutarnji.hr, NK Varaždin secured an important 2:0 victory against Rudeš in the fifth round. The goals were scored by Aleksa Latković in the 72nd minute and Ivan Canjuga in the 84th minute. The hosts had a chance to take the lead earlier, but Ivan Mamut missed a penalty in the 64th minute. The match was evenly balanced until the final 20 minutes. Rudeš defended well, and Varaždin had a goal disallowed for offside in the 40th minute. After Mamut missed the spot-kick, Latković coolly opened the scoring. Canjuga then sealed the 2:0 win, with goalkeeper Silić making a crucial save just before that goal.
Who is Varaždin's new goalkeeper?
Former Rangers goalkeeper Robby McCrorie has signed a two-year contract with NK Varaždin, as reported by glasgowworld.com. McCrorie, who spent last season with Danish side Esbjerg, has become only the second Scottish player in the history of the Croatian top flight. The goalkeeper told glasgowworld.com that his first impressions of the club were excellent. "There is a family atmosphere at the club, everyone gives their all and I believe that NK Varaždin is the right choice for me," McCrorie said. He added that the club is ambitious and improving season by season.
What happened with Dinamo before this round?
The portal Tportal.hr noted that Dinamo, Varaždin's direct rival for the top, drew 2:2 with Istra 1961 in Pula in the fifth round. This allowed Varaždin to take over first place. Dinamo's coach Mario Kovačević highlighted player fatigue after a European trip to Norway before that match. Dinamo did not return to Zagreb from Stavanger but traveled directly to Pula. Kovačević mentioned that some players, like Miha Zajc, were feeling the effects of playing on an artificial pitch. This information provides context for Varaždin's rise to the summit of the table.
What is Varaždin's position after five rounds?
Sport.hrt.hr confirmed that NK Varaždin has 12 points after five rounds and leads the SuperSport HNL. This is the best possible start for coach Nikola Šafarić's team, whose only defeat came against Dinamo in the previous round. The focus now shifts to preparations for the next challenge. Varaždin's next league match is an away fixture against HNK Gorica on September 12, 2026. The current schedule of matches can be followed on our fixtures page. The team will aim to maintain its good rhythm and preserve its leading position.
Where can Varaždin strengthen further?
The arrival of Robby McCrorie increases competition for the goalkeeper position. McCrorie brings experience from the Scottish Premiership and Danish football, adding new quality to the defensive unit. His adaptation will be important for the continuation of the season. The full squad list, including new signings, can be viewed on the squad page. Varaždin now faces a challenging schedule ahead, and maintaining form will be key to achieving its objectives. The next step is the match against Gorica.
