Rijeka
- Matjaz Kek returned to HNK Rijeka in June 2026 and his compact, structure-first approach has continued to pay dividends in a side that have won three of their last five in all competitions (D1, L1) and one of their opening two games in HNL 2026/2027 (L1).
- The club have scored two and conceded one goal in their only home game in HNL 2026/2027.
Istra
- Javi Cabello has been in charge of Istra since 9 June 2026 and has been explicit about a possession-based, proactive style.
- Istra have won one of their last five (D3, L1).
- Istra are still seeking a first HNL 2026/2027 away win after one road trip, but they have not lost either (D1).
Recent meetings
- Rijeka come into this game off the back of a 1-1 draw with Ilves Tampere in UEFA Conference League qualifying and a 2-0 defeat away to Varaždin in HNL 2026/2027.
- Istra drew 2-2 at Hajduk in their opener before hammering Slaven Belupo 3-0 at home.
- Rijeka have failed to win any of their last two home HNL games against Istra and the derby atmosphere will be a factor.
Players to watch
- Daniel Adu-Adjei has one goal in two HNL 2026/2027 appearances for Rijeka.
- Emil Frederiksen has scored three of Istra's last eight goals in their first three HNL 2026/2027 fixtures.
Markets to consider
- Odds of 1.36 about the hosts seem very low.
- The preview suggests a double chance on the visitors as a hedge.
- Under 2.5 goals at 2.29 is another recommended wager.
Prediction
The preview headline is Rijeka to edge out the Zeleno-žuti , but the advised approach is to hedge with a double chance on Istra and back under 2.5 goals .
