HNK Gorica vs Varazdin on January 26
As the Croatian Premier League intensifies, the upcoming clash between HNK Gorica and Varazdin promises to deliver high stakes and tactical intrigue. Set for January 26, this matchup holds significance not only in terms of the points up for grabs but also for both teams’ aspirations in the ongoing season. Gorica, sitting mid-table, is looking to push for a potential European spot, while Varazdin, hovering near the relegation zone, needs points to ensure survival in the league. With both teams aware of the importance of this fixture, the battle at the Gorica City Stadium is bound to be intense. Expect a spirited contest with weather conditions potentially playing a minor role, as temperatures are expected to be cold, though unlikely to affect the quality of play.
HNK Gorica: Tactical Approach and Current Form
HNK Gorica has been showing solid form in recent weeks, having registered 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss in their last 5 matches. Their tactical setup revolves around a dynamic 4-3-3 formation, which allows them to dominate the midfield while maintaining width in attack. Gorica’s style of play is built around quick transitions, exploiting space in the final third with pace, especially from their wingers. With an average possession rate of 53%, they prefer to build up slowly from the back, but they are also comfortable playing direct when necessary. The team’s xG (expected goals) average stands at 1.7 per match, showing their ability to create quality chances, though they’ve struggled with finishing at times.
Key players for Gorica include the attacking midfielder Ivan Bajić, whose vision and ability to link play has been central to their offensive structure. He has contributed 3 assists in the last 5 games. Upfront, striker Kristijan Lovrić has been in good form, scoring twice in his last three outings. However, Gorica will be without their first-choice central defender Luka Menalo due to a suspension, which could affect their defensive stability. The absence of Menalo may require the team to adjust their defensive line, which could expose them to counter-attacks.
Varazdin: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Varazdin has been struggling in their recent form, with only 1 win, 2 draws, and 2 losses in their last 5 matches. The team typically sets up in a 4-4-2 formation, focusing on a compact defensive structure and counter-attacks. Varazdin’s game is based on a disciplined, low block in which they prioritize solid defending over possession. Their xG stands at 1.1 per match, which highlights their difficulty in creating consistent scoring opportunities. They rely heavily on long balls to their two strikers, particularly through the wings, looking for crosses into the box.
Key players for Varazdin include the experienced midfielder and team captain, Antonio Mance, who has been their creative spark, contributing 2 goals and 1 assist in the last 5 matches. Mance’s ability to orchestrate play from deep positions will be crucial for Varazdin, especially in breaking down Gorica’s defense. However, the team is missing their first-choice goalkeeper, Tomislav Ožegović, due to an injury, which leaves them with a less experienced option between the posts. This could be a significant weakness, especially when facing a team like Gorica with sharp attacking players.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
In their last 5 encounters, Gorica has had the upper hand, winning 3 times and drawing twice. The most recent meeting was in September 2025, when Gorica won 2-1 in a hard-fought battle. Historically, Gorica has shown more control in these matchups, with Varazdin struggling to break down their defense. Despite their recent struggles, Varazdin will take confidence from their draw in the earlier season clash, where they held Gorica to a 1-1 stalemate on their home turf.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the key battles in this game will be in the middle of the park, where Gorica’s Bajić will face off against Mance of Varazdin. Bajić’s creative flair and ability to dictate tempo will be crucial in breaking through Varazdin’s defensive lines, while Mance will need to disrupt Gorica’s buildup play and provide his side with opportunities on the counter. The second pivotal battle will be on the flanks, where Gorica’s wingers will come up against Varazdin’s full-backs. Gorica will likely look to exploit the wide areas, with their wingers pulling the defensive line out of position and looking for crosses into the box. If Varazdin’s full-backs can prevent this, it could tilt the game in their favor.
Finally, with Gorica’s lack of depth at center-back due to Menalo’s suspension, Varazdin’s strikers could find more space than usual in the box, making aerial duels and set-piece situations even more critical for both teams.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Given the tactical approaches of both teams, Gorica will likely dominate possession and control the tempo of the match. However, Varazdin will remain compact and look to exploit any gaps left by Gorica’s attacking full-backs. The absence of Menalo for Gorica gives Varazdin a chance to capitalize on set-pieces and crosses into the box, but it remains to be seen if their strikers can convert those chances. The match is expected to be a tight affair, with Gorica potentially edging it due to their superior quality in the final third. A 2-1 victory for Gorica seems likely, with both teams likely to score, though the game could also end in a 1-1 draw if Varazdin’s defense holds firm. Key metrics to watch: total goals, xG, and possession in the final third.
Final Thoughts
With both teams facing different motivations, the tactical battle promises to be intriguing. Gorica’s greater offensive prowess and Varazdin’s defensive discipline are the defining factors of this match. The real question this game will answer is whether Gorica can overcome the absence of their key defender and break down a solid Varazdin defense, or if the visitors can frustrate them and take something from the game. The stakes are high, and the outcome is far from certain.
