NK Varazdin vs Istra 1961 Match Recap - Dec 19, 2025

Istra 1961 Dominates NK Varazdin in a 3-1 Victory, Prevljak Shines Again

Smail Prevljak's two goals propelled Istra 1961 to a commanding 3-1 victory over NK Varazdin, showcasing their offensive prowess and solidifying their position in the league. Prevljak's performance continues a remarkable run, having scored five goals in his last two matches, including a hat trick against NK Osijek just weeks prior. His consistency has become a defining feature of Istra's recent success, making him a player to watch as the season progresses.

NK Varazdin entered this match with a mixed bag of results, struggling to find their footing after a disappointing 0-2 loss to Vukovar. Despite a brief resurgence with a 4-2 win against NK Lokomotiva Zagreb, their inability to maintain momentum has left them vulnerable. The team's recent form reflects a lack of cohesion, particularly in defense, where they have conceded multiple goals in crucial moments. This match only exacerbated their issues, as they failed to contain Istra's attacking threats.

The first half saw both teams exchange goals within a minute, with Mamut equalizing for Varazdin shortly after Prevljak's opener. This momentary spark seemed to ignite hope for Varazdin, but it quickly faded as Istra regained control. The second half began with Rozić extending Istra's lead just after the break, demonstrating their ability to capitalize on defensive lapses from Varazdin. The home side's defense struggled to adapt, allowing Istra to exploit gaps and maintain pressure throughout the match.

Statistically, Istra outperformed Varazdin in key areas. They recorded 14 total shots compared to Varazdin's 9, with 7 of those on target versus Varazdin's 4. This disparity highlights Istra's clinical finishing and ability to create high-quality chances. Their passing accuracy also stood out at 84%, significantly higher than Varazdin's 69%. This efficiency in possession allowed Istra to dictate the tempo and flow of the game, leaving Varazdin chasing shadows for much of the match.

Varazdin's recent struggles have been compounded by inconsistent performances from key players. While Duvnjak managed to score in previous matches, he was unable to make an impact against Istra. The midfield lacked creativity and failed to support the attack effectively, leading to a disjointed performance overall. The absence of a cohesive strategy left Varazdin vulnerable to counter-attacks, which Istra exploited with precision.

The defeat leaves Varazdin in a precarious position in the standings, tied on points with Istra but trailing in goal difference. With their next match against HNK Gorica looming, they must regroup quickly to avoid slipping further down the table. The pressure is mounting on coach Nikola Šafarić to find solutions that can stabilize the team's form and restore confidence among the players.

Istra's victory not only boosts their morale but also reinforces their status as contenders in the league. With players like Prevljak firing on all cylinders, they are poised to challenge for higher honors as the season unfolds. Their ability to perform under pressure will be crucial as they face HNK Rijeka next, a match that could further define their campaign.

The contrast between Istra's current form and Varazdin's struggles paints a vivid picture of the challenges each team faces moving forward. Istra has found its rhythm at just the right time, while Varazdin must confront its inconsistencies head-on if they hope to remain competitive in the league. The narrative of this match serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in football, setting the stage for an intriguing second half of the season.