Feels like 25.3°C (77.5°F)
Sunny
Wind
25.2 km/h SW
Humidity
49%
Time
04:00 PM
Condition
Sunny
Well, folks, what a match! Istra 1961 pulled off a hard-fought 1-0 victory over NK Slaven Belupo at Gradski Stadion. Istra's lone goal came in the 30th minute, courtesy of M. Čuić, who put the ball into the back of the net from a beautiful pass from A. Kadušić.
The game was a battle of attrition. Istra controlled possession for 42% of the match, with NK Slaven Belupo matching them at 58%. It wasn't pretty, but the crucial statistic was that Istra managed two shots on target compared to NK Slaven Belupo's one. That difference was the key to the win. Istra also had a slightly better shot accuracy percentage.
There were some exciting moments. A few substitutions helped both sides to adjust their game strategy, and a couple of yellow cards kept the tension high. NK Slaven Belupo had a goal canceled by VAR in the 67th minute. Istra had some great moments in the closing stages, showing resilience that kept them in the lead.
Both teams came out focused. NK Slaven Belupo, having made a few subs before half time, hoped to improve their midfield presence and attack, but they were consistently thwarted by Istra's defensive resilience. Istra, playing well in the final third, kept possession, and moved the ball well from back to front, keeping NK Slaven Belupo under pressure.
All in all, a solid win for Istra. A victory earned through hard work and a touch of fortune.