NK Lokomotiva Zagreb vs Istra 1961 Match Recap - Oct 25, 2025

Istra 1961 Stuns NK Lokomotiva Zagreb with Late Comeback in Dramatic 2-1 Victory

On a crisp autumn evening at Stadion Maksimir, Istra 1961 claimed an impressive comeback victory over NK Lokomotiva Zagreb, securing a 2-1 win that alters the landscape of the HNL standings. With goals from Antonio Maurić and Israel Ayuma, the visitors carved out a statement win just as many had begun to write them off.

In the buildup, I had anticipated a tight, perhaps even lackluster affair, given both teams' struggles for goals in recent weeks. Yet, what unfolded was a match filled with fervor and resilience, showcasing the unpredictable nature of football. Early on, it seemed NK Lokomotiva Zagreb would confirm my prediction, as Aleks Stojaković found the net in the 15th minute, expertly converting a chance that gave Lokomotiva a promising foothold in the match. With their third position in the table and a recent win over Dinamo Zagreb, they appeared poised to extend their success.

However, Istra, positioned sixth and looking to claw back into contention, responded with grit and determination. As the first half approached its conclusion, Maurić leveled the score just before the halftime whistle, reminding spectators that the match was far from over. His goal not only reignited Istra's hopes but also shifted momentum decisively in their favor.

The second half saw a resolute Lokomotiva side attempting to regain control, but they were met with staunch resistance from Istra, whose newfound defensive resilience has been a hallmark of their recent performances. The visitors displayed tactical discipline and an unwavering belief that they could snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

As the clock ticked down towards 83 minutes, Israel Ayuma executed a moment of brilliance, scoring from close range to give Istra the lead for the first time in the match. The eruption of joy from the away fans contrasted sharply with the despair of the Lokomotiva supporters, who had hoped their team would solidify their place among the league's elite.

With this result, Lokomotiva now sits in third place with 16 points from 10 matches, while Istra moves up to sixth with 12 points. The victory is especially crucial for Istra, who had suffered a heavy defeat just a week prior against HNK Hajduk Split. It reflects their resilience and ability to bounce back in a competitive league where every point counts towards aspirations of climbing the table.

Looking ahead, NK Lokomotiva must reassess their strategy if they wish to maintain their strong positioning in the league. Meanwhile, Istra will be buoyed by this result, and as their confidence grows, they aim to build on this momentum as they continue their quest for a higher standing. In a league where every match can reshape narratives, both teams must now continue to fight not only for points but for their identities in a season characterized by relentless competition.