NK Varaždin travel to Poljud on Sunday, 18 October, for a major showdown with league leaders HNK Hajduk Split in the 10th round of the HNL. Kick-off is at 15:00 local time, with Varaždin entering the match on a positive run of five games without defeat.
The only goal was scored by Luka Mamić in the 40th minute, with an assist from Bockaj. That victory kept Varaždin in second place in the table with 18 points from nine games, just one point behind Hajduk. The team has been exceptionally solid in defence all season, conceding only seven goals while scoring 14.
Hajduk arrive in excellent form, with three wins in their last three official matches. On Thursday they celebrated a 2-1 victory over Ajax in the Europa Conference League, having previously beaten Dinamo in the big derby. However, Varaždin have good memories of their last meeting with the Whites, which they won 2-1 at the Stadion Anđelko Herjavec in early August. Luka Mamić, the team's top scorer this season with four goals, will be a key threat to the home defence.
For Varaždin, it is important to maintain organisation and exploit counter-attacks.
This match could significantly alter the title race. A win would return Varaždin to the top of the table, while a draw would maintain the status quo. After this away game, the team will return home for a series of important fixtures. Details of upcoming matches can be checked on the fixtures page.
The match at Poljud is traditionally challenging due to the atmosphere, but Varaždin have shown they can handle pressure. Their greatest strength lies in collective work and discipline, which will be needed more than ever on Sunday. The coaching staff reports no new injuries, so they have a full squad available for this important duel.
