Jarun vs Varteks Varaždin - Second NL

There is a notable edge to this Second NL fixture. When Jarun meet Varteks Varaždin at the home ground on October 10, 2026, both will sense an opportunity to land a telling blow. O'Neill made five changes for Celtic's midweek win at St Johnstone as he rested some key players ahead of Sunday's clash.

Both camps will view the Second NL meeting at the home ground as an opportunity to put a marker down, regardless of where they currently stand. The hosts have struggled for consistency, D in their last five pointing to a win rate of 25%. Varteks Varaždin have blown hot and cold, W across their last five and a season win rate of 25%. The contrast in attacking output — 2.25 versus 0.75 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. In his latest column, Paul Merson predicts the 2026/27 Premier League season at both ends of the table.

Wing play is likely to be central to the contest. Jarun will look to stretch the pitch and isolate their wide attackers, while Varteks Varaždin must find a way to compress the space and choke the supply lines. As a winger or more of a central, attacking midfielder? “He’s an offensive player who knows how to mix it up across the attack.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. As one of those fortunate enough to be inside the Westfalenstadion when he raced clear to score a Champions League winner against Chelsea in 2023, it is fair to say that Adeyemi's pace leaves an impression.

Predictions are tricky when the sides are this evenly matched, and small margins — a moment of quality, a slice of luck — could decide it either way. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 2-2 draw feels like a fitting result. Whatever the outcome, the Second NL fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. It is understood that his next move is most likely to take him abroad - and potentially to the Premier League.