Nehaj vs Jadran Poreč Match Recap - Nov 1, 2025

In a match that showcased the struggles and aspirations of two teams fighting to escape the lower depths of the Third NL - Istok, Jadran Poreč decisively defeated Nehaj 4-0 at the Stadion Pod Nehajem on November 1, 2025. This contest, held amidst the crisp autumn air, delivered a stark reminder of the competitive nature of the league, as Jadran managed to secure their first league win, leaving Nehaj in dire straits.

As expected from the pre-match preview, both teams were hungry for points, having recently experienced disappointing spells of form. Nehaj entered the match on the back of a series of lackluster performances, including a painful 0-4 defeat to Krk just weeks before. They had hoped to turn the tide at home, but instead, it was Jadran who displayed the hunger for victory.

The first half was indicative of the wider struggles Nehaj has faced this season. With a mere eight points from ten matches, they were eager to break their scoring drought that had now extended to six games. But it was Jadran who struck the first blow. In the 28th minute, Marko Šimunić netted the opening goal, silencing the home crowd and marking a pivotal moment in the match.

With a wave of confidence now washing over Jadran, they quickly capitalized on their momentum. Just minutes later, in the 33rd minute, Tomislav Radočaj doubled their lead, sending Nehaj's defense into further disarray. Despite attempts to regroup, Nehaj struggled to maintain possession and find any rhythm, a theme that has plagued them throughout the season.

As the second half unfolded, Nehaj's frustrations grew. A lack of creativity and sharpness in the attacking third left them vulnerable. Jadran Poreč seized this opportunity, with Miloš Kovač adding another goal in the 62nd minute, bringing the score to 3-0 with a well-placed shot that left the keeper with little chance.

The match seemed all but over, but Jadran wasn't finished yet. In the 75th minute, Ante Vlahov capped off a resounding performance by scoring the fourth goal. The visitors had transformed what many expected to be a tightly contested affair into a one-sided spectacle.

The conclusion of the match confirmed Nehaj's precarious position. Now sitting at 14th place in the league with only eight points, they are in desperate need of revitalization as they prepare for their next match against Crikvenica on November 8. The pressure mounts as the season progresses, and it is clear that drastic changes may be necessary for Nehaj to avoid relegation.

Conversely, Jadran Poreč's win not only lifted them out of the basement but also injected them with vital momentum, placing them at 13th with the same point total of eight, albeit with one less win. Their next match against Halubjan Viškovo will be crucial as they look to build on this newfound confidence.

Reflecting on my pre-match predictions, it's safe to say that the outcome was not the entertaining back-and-forth battle I imagined. I had expected both teams to fight tooth and nail for a victory, especially given their similar standings. Instead, Jadran came out resolute and focused, silencing any doubts about their capability to win.

Looking ahead, the stakes are higher than ever for both teams. Nehaj faces a must-win situation next week, while Jadran, buoyed by their impressive victory, will aim to solidify their resurgence. The beautiful game often brings surprises, and in this instance, it delivered a decisive reminder of the unpredictable nature of football. Fans can only hope for continued excitement as the season rolls on.