NK Slaven Belupo vs Istra 1961 prediction

AI match recap

This is a tightly poised direct contest between neighbouring sides in the HNL table. Slaven arrive encouraged by their latest away win but must replace a suspended leading striker, a major change to their attacking structure. Istra bring a more fluid, youthful threat and recent evidence of resilience, though their midfield is weakened by injuries and they have had a shorter recovery period. Expect an assertive home start, with the contest becoming more transitional if Istra play through Slaven’s first press.

Head-to-head analysis

The recent series has been competitive, with Istra winning the latest meeting decisively but Slaven taking useful home results across the broader sequence. Istra’s away record at this venue is less convincing than their recent head-to-head success in Pula.

Injuries and absences

Slaven lose Nestorovski through suspension and have further attacking uncertainty around Dabro, reducing their established penalty-box presence. Istra’s missing Maurić and Doumbia weaken leadership and depth in central midfield, where they will need disciplined cover from the players available.

Form (last 5)

NK Slaven Belupo vs Istra 1961 stats

Last meetings

• 2026-08-15Istra 1961 3-0 NK Slaven Belupo
• 2026-05-04Istra 1961 3-1 NK Slaven Belupo
• 2026-02-27NK Slaven Belupo 1-0 Istra 1961
• 2025-11-29Istra 1961 1-1 NK Slaven Belupo
• 2025-09-12NK Slaven Belupo 2-1 Istra 1961
• 2025-04-28Istra 1961 1-1 NK Slaven Belupo

Other HNL matches

• Dinamo Zagreb – HNK Rijeka
• HNK Hajduk Split – HNK Gorica
• Rudes – Dinamo Zagreb
• HNK Rijeka – NK Varazdin
• NK Lokomotiva Zagreb – NK Osijek