NK Istra 1961 host NK Lokomotiva on Saturday, Jan 23 at 5:00 PM in a top-four clash that could have significant title implications. Both sides are separated by just 3 points in the HNL, making this one of the more consequential fixtures of the season.

NK Istra 1961 come into this fixture in mixed form (0W 0D 1L). NK Lokomotiva, meanwhile, arrive in mixed form (1W 0D 0L) — actually the better-performing side in recent weeks. NK Istra 1961 head into this on the back of a defeat, while NK Lokomotiva arrive off a win — momentum clearly with the visitors.

Head-to-head records offer little separation — NK Istra 1961 and NK Lokomotiva have split their 10 meetings almost evenly (4W–3D–3W). Their last encounter ended in NK Lokomotiva won 3–2. These two tend to produce goals — averaging 3.2 per game in recent meetings.

Verdict: This looks an evenly matched contest. Home advantage gives NK Istra 1961 a slight edge, but NK Lokomotiva are capable of causing problems. A draw would be a fair result.