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NK Slaven Belupo, often simply called Slaven, is a professional football club based in the city of Koprivnica, Croatia. Founded in 1912, it is one of the oldest football institutions in the country. The club's origins trace back to the "Hrvatski sokol" gymnastics society, with the football section formally established just before World War I. The name "Belupo" was added later, derived from a local pharmaceutical company that became a key sponsor, reflecting the club's deep integration into the community. The team plays its home matches at the Gradski stadion Ivan Kušek-Apaš, a modest but atmospheric venue in Koprivnica. While not among Croatia's largest stadiums, it is known for its tight pitch and passionate local support. Slaven Belupo has carved out a respected niche in Croatian football, primarily competing in the top-tier HNL. Their most notable achievements include winning the Croatian Cup in 2007 and reaching the final on two other occasions (2005, 2016). This cup victory also secured their first foray into European competition, where they have participated in the UEFA Cup/Europa League qualifiers. The club's identity is built on a reputation for being a well-organized, hard-working team that often punches above its weight. Historically, they have favored a disciplined and tactical approach, focusing on strong defensive organization and quick counter-attacks. Legendary figures associated with the club include prolific striker Davor Vugrinec, who had multiple stints, and midfield maestro Miljenko Mumlek. The fan culture, while not the largest in the nation, is fiercely loyal, with supporters known as "Šljakeri" creating a vibrant atmosphere. Currently, Slaven Belupo remains a stable presence in the Croatian top flight, consistently finishing in mid-table and occasionally challenging for European qualification spots. An interesting fact is their historic rivalry with nearby NK Koprivnica, though this has diminished as the clubs have operated in different divisions. The club's story is one of resilience and community pride, representing the heart of the Podravina region in Croatian football.