NK Varaždin secured a point against Istra 1961 in the 5th round of the SuperSport HNL, temporarily moving them to the top of the league table. The match at Stadion Varteks ended in a 0-0 draw, with the hosts creating several good chances to win.
How did the match at Varteks unfold?
NK Varaždin started the match with high pressure and created the first chance in the 7th minute. After a pass from Doumbia, Latković set up Mamić, but his shot from 15 meters was saved by the visiting goalkeeper Kolić. Istra proved dangerous on the counter, and in the 35th minute, Tavares set up Mamić for a low shot after Kumar lost possession, but Kolić was again in the right place. The first half ended goalless, with the hosts continuing to press after the break.
The second half saw more lively action. In the 57th minute, Ahmeti shot from 20 meters, but the ball went wide. Five minutes later, a clash between Miettinen and Canjuga brought medical staff onto the pitch, though without serious consequences. Varaždin's best chance came in the 69th minute when Canjuga passed to Latković, who rounded the goalkeeper but overhit the ball, allowing Kumar to block. In the dying moments, in the 90+2nd minute, Uchegbu struck the crossbar with a powerful shot, which was the last major opportunity for the hosts. The match was officiated by referee Duje Strukan from Split, and a minute of silence was observed before kick-off in honour of Ivan Gudelj.
What did the Varaždin coach say?
After the match, coach Nikola Šafarić gave a statement to Jutarnji list. "Istra has shown itself to be an enthusiastic team that enjoys football, has a good mix of youth and experience, plays good football, knows what it wants, and certainly we have another demanding match ahead," said Šafarić. His words highlight the respect for an opponent that made life difficult for the home side at Varteks.
What is the current league standing?
This draw brought NK Varaždin an important point. With 13 points from five played rounds, the team has temporarily taken top spot in the SuperSport HNL standings. They have played one more match than Osijek and two more than Dinamo, meaning the position is likely to change as the season progresses. You can follow the current standings on our standings page.
What's next for NK Varaždin?
The team now prepares for its next league challenge. NK Varaždin travels to face HNK Gorica away on Saturday, September 12, 2026. It will be an opportunity to confirm their good form and remain at the top of the competition. The full schedule of upcoming matches can be found on the fixtures page. Coach Šafarić will have the full squad at his disposal, and the list of all players is available in the squad section.
Istra 1961 player Javier Cabello complimented the home side after the final whistle. "In my opinion, Varaždin is the best team in the league, and the results confirm that," stated Cabello. NK Varaždin will now have to defend their table position away against Gorica.
