NK Publikum Celje and MTK Budapest Play Out Stalemate in Pre-Season Friendly

Date: 8 July 2026 | Competition: International Club Friendly | Stadium: Stadion Z'dežele, Celje

NK Publikum Celje and MTK Budapest fought to a goalless draw in a midweek pre-season friendly. Neither side could find the net despite several chances, as both teams used the match to sharpen their fitness and tactical shape ahead of their domestic campaigns.

Match Overview

The friendly, played behind closed doors at Stadion Z'dežele, saw a cagey first half with few clear openings. Celje, competing in the Slovenian PrvaLiga, enjoyed slightly more possession, while Hungarian side MTK Budapest looked dangerous on the counter. The best chance of the first period fell to Celje’s forward Andrej Novak, whose header from a corner was tipped over the bar by MTK goalkeeper Dávid Lakatos.

The second half brought more attacking intent. MTK introduced fresh legs and began to dominate midfield, but Celje’s defense, led by veteran center-back Marko Jović, remained resolute. In the 72nd minute, MTK striker Bence Szabó unleashed a powerful drive from the edge of the box, only to see it crash off the post. Celje responded with a late flurry, but Lakatos made a fine save in stoppage time to preserve the clean sheet.

Key Moments

• 39' Save: Dávid Lakatos (MTK) denied Andrej Novak’s goal-bound header.
• 72' Post: Bence Szabó (MTK) struck the woodwork from 20 yards.
• 88' Save: Lakatos again, this time tipping a curling shot wide.

Season Implications

For NK Publikum Celje, this match was part of a series of summer friendlies intended to build cohesion ahead of the Slovenian league season. Coach Miha Pregelj praised his team’s defensive organization but admitted they lacked “a final touch in the final third.” MTK Budapest, preparing for the Hungarian NB I, will take encouragement from their solid defensive display and chances created. Both managers will likely focus on finishing drills in the coming training sessions.

The 0-0 result may not be glamorous, but for pre-season fixtures, a clean sheet and a solid run-out serve their purpose for both clubs.