NK Varaždin welcome NK Lokomotiva Zagreb in an important Croatian HNL clash as both sides aim to finish the season strongly.

Varaždin currently sit third in the league standings and remain in contention for a European qualification place after a largely impressive campaign. Despite back-to-back defeats against Hajduk Split and Dinamo Zagreb, the hosts had previously put together a strong unbeaten run that showcased their defensive organisation and ability to grind out results.

Home form has been particularly important for Varaždin this season, and they will be confident of responding positively against a Lokomotiva Zagreb side that has struggled for consistency in recent weeks.

Lokomotiva Zagreb arrive after suffering a damaging 3-0 defeat to Rijeka and have managed just two wins from their last ten league matches. Defensive inconsistency has hurt the visitors throughout the campaign, although they still possess enough attacking quality to trouble Varaždin in transition.

Recent meetings between these sides have often been competitive and closely fought. Four of the last six head-to-head clashes produced goals for both teams, including a dramatic 2-2 draw earlier this season.

Head-to-Head Record

Varaždin have enjoyed the upper hand in recent meetings, remaining unbeaten in several of the last head-to-head encounters. The hosts also claimed a convincing 4-2 victory in December’s corresponding fixture.

Key Players to Watch

Mamut L. – Varaždin

Mamut has been one of Varaždin’s most reliable attacking players this season, contributing important goals during their push for European qualification.

Stojakovic A. – Lokomotiva Zagreb

Stojakovic remains a key attacking outlet for Lokomotiva Zagreb and could play a major role if the visitors are to get a positive result away from home.

Varaždin vs Lokomotiva Zagreb Betting Tips

• Over 1.5 Goals
• Both Teams To Score – Yes
• Correct Score: Varaždin 1-1 Lokomotiva Zagreb

Varaždin vs Lokomotiva Zagreb Prediction

Varaždin’s stronger league position and home advantage make them slight favourites, but Lokomotiva Zagreb have enough attacking quality to make this a difficult encounter. With both sides needing points to finish the season positively, an open contest with chances at both ends looks likely.

A score draw appears to be the most realistic outcome considering the recent head-to-head trends and both teams’ current form.

Predicted Score

Varaždin 1-1 Lokomotiva Zagreb