NK Varazdin
- NK Varazdin are 4th in the HNL 2025/2026 table with 48 points from 34 matches, while NK Istra 1961 Pula are 6 points worse off and sit 5th, having played the same number of matches.
- Varazdin are a compact, counter-attacking side with good players who are comfortable on the ball, but their success has been built on quick transitions, energetic pressing and exploiting turnovers.
- Varazdin are undefeated in their last 2 home games (W1, D1).
NK Istra 1961 Pula
- Istra 1961 are much more reserved and risk averse under Kresimir Rezic, who has overseen a much more conservative setup since taking charge in April 2026.
- Istra prefer to keep it tight, not expose themselves and focus on defence first.
- Istra have split their last 2 away games (W1, L1).
Head-to-Head
- NK Istra 1961 Pula have won their last 3 matches H2H against NK Varazdin in HNL 2025/2026.
- NK Istra 1961 Pula have scored 20 goals in 17 away matches in HNL 2025/2026.
Key Players
- Ivan Mamut has scored 9 goals in 25 HNL appearances this season, making him Varazdin’s main scoring threat.
- Prevljak has netted 14 goals in 31 HNL matches for Istra this term and is their main threat.
Betting Insights
The odds for Varazdin to win are 2.25 , Over 2.5 goals at 1.8 and Both Teams to Score - Yes at 1.6 .
Prediction
- This should be an open contest, and goals are likely at both ends.
- The tempo of the game will be important and whichever manager can impose their style of play on the game will likely come out on top.
