HNK Zadar vs Neretva Metković Match Recap - Nov 2, 2025

Under the bright lights of Stadion Stanovi, HNK Zadar faced off against Neretva Metković in a critical Third NL - Jug encounter on November 2, 2025. The match concluded with a resounding 3-0 victory for Neretva, leaving Zadar to grapple with mounting questions about their form and future prospects.

As fans settled into their seats, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, reflecting the importance of this clash. With Zadar currently occupying fourth place and struggling to maintain their momentum-having won just once in their last five matches-the weight of expectation was palpable. In contrast, Neretva arrived at Stadion Stanovi buoyed by recent successes and eager to capitalize on Zadar's vulnerabilities.

The match kicked off with early intensity. Neretva's determination was clear from the outset as they pressed forward, looking to exploit any gaps in Zadar's defense. Their efforts paid off when Ivan Gali found the back of the net in the 24th minute, sending shockwaves through the home crowd. Gali's goal not only provided Metković with a crucial lead but also highlighted Zadar's defensive frailties that have plagued them during recent outings.

Despite trailing, Zadar attempted to rally. Yet time and again, they were stifled by Neretva's organized defense. As minutes ticked away, frustration mounted within the ranks of Zadar. The offensive creativity they had shown earlier in the season seemed conspicuously absent.

In an attempt to turn the tide, HNK Zadar made tactical adjustments at halftime; however, Neretva continued to take control of the game. Just before the hour mark, Tomislav Sekuli doubled Metković's advantage with a well-timed strike from outside the box that left Zadar goalkeeper helpless. This pivotal goal seemed to deflate any lingering hopes of a comeback for Zadar.

With confidence surging through their ranks, Neretva sealed their dominance late in the second half when Vito Šimun scored in injury time. The game effectively ended as a contest then; spectators could only marvel at how quickly fortunes can shift within a single matchday in Third NL - Jug competition.

This result not only marks a significant win for Neretva Metković but also serves as an alarm bell for HNK Zadar as they tumble downwards on the league table. With this decisive defeat, Zadar remains stuck at 19 points after ten matches and faces serious questions about its playoff ambitions given their current form.

For Neretva Metković, now sitting securely in seventh place with 20 points after ten games played (five wins overall), this victory is more than just three points-it's a statement that they are prepared to challenge higher up the standings moving forward.

Looking ahead, both teams have pivotal matches coming up next week that will test their resolve even further: HNK Zadar will travel to face GOŠK Dubrovnik while Neretva Metković hosts Val Kaštel Stari. The stakes rise as every match becomes paramount during this critical phase of league play.

Reflecting on my earlier predictions-that Zadar would find enough firepower to secure at least a draw-I must humbly acknowledge how misguided that outlook appears today. Clearly, it was not their day on home turf as they fell victim to an inspired performance from Neretva Metković.

In football-as in life-expectations can often fall flat when faced with reality on gameday. What remains is hope for HNK Zadar that they can rediscover their winning touch before it's too late while celebrating what could be seen as a turning point for Neretva's season ahead of upcoming challenges.