NK Varazdin vs NK Lokomotiva Zagreb Match Recap - Dec 7, 2025

NK Varazdin's Resurgence: A 4-2 Triumph Over Lokomotiva Zagreb

NK Varazdin showcased a commanding performance, overcoming NK Lokomotiva Zagreb 4-2, marking a significant turnaround in their recent form. This victory not only boosts their morale but also solidifies their position in the upper half of the table, now sitting fifth with 20 points. The win is a testament to their resilience, especially after a series of draws and a loss in previous matches.

Tomislav Duvnjak emerged as a pivotal figure for Varazdin, continuing his impressive run by contributing to the scoreline. His ability to control the midfield has been crucial for Varazdin, and this match further highlighted his importance. Duvnjak's consistent performances have been a silver lining in an otherwise inconsistent stretch for the team, as he has now scored in back-to-back matches.

Aleks Stojaković opened the scoring for Lokomotiva early on, but the team failed to maintain their momentum. Despite leading 1-0, Lokomotiva's inability to capitalize on their early advantage proved costly. They have struggled to convert leads into wins, as evidenced by their recent matches where they often settled for draws despite dominating possession and shots.

The match statistics reveal a stark contrast in effectiveness. Varazdin managed to convert their chances efficiently, scoring four goals from just two shots on target. This clinical finishing stands in sharp contrast to Lokomotiva's performance, where they dominated possession (55%) and total shots (5) but could only find the net twice. This inefficiency has been a recurring theme for Lokomotiva, who have now drawn three of their last five matches.

Iuri Tavares and Luka Mamić were instrumental in Varazdin's attack, with Tavares scoring shortly after halftime to shift the momentum decisively in favor of the home side. Mamić's late goal in stoppage time capped off a remarkable comeback, showcasing Varazdin's attacking depth and ability to perform under pressure. This match marks a turning point for Mamić, who has struggled for form but found his footing when it mattered most.

Lokomotiva's defensive frailties were exposed once again. Despite having a solid start, they conceded four goals, highlighting ongoing issues with their backline. Coach Nikica Jelavić must address these vulnerabilities if they hope to climb the standings. The team's recent form has been characterized by inconsistency, with only one win in their last five matches, leaving them seventh with 19 points.

The penalty awarded to Lokomotiva early in the match was a moment of hope that quickly faded. Marko Pajač converted it, but the team failed to build on that momentum. Their inability to maintain composure after taking the lead reflects a deeper psychological issue that needs addressing. The pressure of securing points has seemingly weighed heavily on them, leading to missed opportunities.

Varazdin's defensive unit, led by Lamine Ba, showed resilience despite facing early adversity. They regrouped effectively after conceding the opening goal and managed to limit Lokomotiva's chances thereafter. The defensive solidity displayed in this match is a promising sign for Varazdin moving forward, especially as they prepare for their next fixture against Vukovar.

The contrasting narratives of both teams highlight the unpredictable nature of football. Varazdin's resurgence is a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in this league. After weeks of frustration and missed opportunities, they finally turned potential into points, while Lokomotiva must confront their struggles head-on if they wish to avoid slipping further down the table.

Looking ahead, Varazdin will aim to build on this momentum against Vukovar, while Lokomotiva faces a challenging encounter against HNK Hajduk Split. Both teams have much to prove in their upcoming matches, but only one can capitalize on this pivotal moment. The stakes are high as they navigate through the final stretch of the season, with every point crucial for their respective ambitions.

This match encapsulated the essence of football: resilience, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of improvement. For Varazdin, it was a night of celebration; for Lokomotiva, a wake-up call. The journey continues, and both teams must adapt quickly to the demands of the league if they hope to achieve their goals.