As the Croatian HNL enters another exciting week, several key fixtures are set to unfold from 19 August to 26 August 2025, promising to impact both title and relegation battles.
On Friday, 22 August, Vukovar will host Gorica at 18:00. Vukovar currently finds itself near the bottom of the table and is desperate for points to avoid relegation. Gorica, however, is looking to consolidate its mid-table position and will be keen to secure a win against a struggling opponent.
Saturday, 23 August, features two crucial matches. At 16:45, Slaven Koprivnica will take on Lokomotiva Zagreb. Both teams are in the lower half of the table, making this a vital six-pointer in the fight to avoid relegation. Later that evening, at 19:00, reigning champions Dinamo Zagreb will face Istra 1961. Dinamo, sitting at the top, will be expected to secure a comfortable victory against Istra, who are battling to stay clear of the relegation zone.
Sunday, 24 August, promises to be a thrilling day, starting at 16:30 with Osijek facing Hajduk Split. This match is crucial for both clubs as they vie for European qualification; Osijek is currently in contention, while Hajduk is looking to bounce back from a few inconsistent results. At 19:00, Rijeka will take on Varaždin, with Rijeka keen to maintain pressure on the top clubs, while Varaždin fights to escape the relegation zone.
With several teams battling for points at both ends of the table, this week’s fixtures are set to be pivotal in shaping the HNL landscape as the season progresses.