He made his debut for Yugoslavia in a September 1973 friendly match against Hungary and earned a total of seven caps, scoring one goal.
[2] While playing for Yugoslavia during a match against Sweden on 10 October 1975 he scored a fantastic goal, which was for years screened at the beginning of the sports program.
Vabec was described as a highly intelligent player, with superb technique and passing skills, and equally adept with both feet.
[3] In October 2006, he was appointed head coach at relegation-threatened Croatian second division side NK Čakovec.
He remained at the position until the end of the season, but failed to save the club from relegation.