Third NL North stats & predictions

NK Varteks vs. NK Podravina: Gritty Duel Expected

Varteks is on an upward trajectory, currently unbeaten in their last five home matches. Their midfield duo, Marko Horvat and Ivan Bjelovarac, are running the show with dynamic playmaking and a keen eye for goal. Podravina, however, comes with a notorious record of upset wins, particularly away. Their compact defensive formation has frustrated many offensive sides.

• Last 5 Meetings: Varteks 3W, Podravina 1W, Draw 1.
• Key Stats: Varteks has scored 10 goals in their last 4 matches; Podravina yielded only 3 in their last 3 away games.

Betting Prediction: Expect a tight encounter, but Varteks's home form gives them a marginal edge. Suggested Bet: Varteks to win, Under 2.5 goals.

Polet Sv. Martin na Muri vs. Mladost Ždralovi: Clash of Styles

This fixture sees attacking flamboyance pitched against defensive resilience. Polet is famous for their aggressive full-backs and rapid transitions. Mladost boasts the tightest defense in the division, rarely conceding more than a single goal per match.

• Form Comparison: Polet – 3W 1D 1L; Mladost – 4W 0D 1L.
• Goals Average: Combined 2.9 per match.

Betting Prediction: Expect end-to-end action. Suggested Bet: Both teams to score, Over 2.5 goals.

Međimurje vs. Bjelovar: Momentum vs. History

NK Međimurje's recent run has sparked optimism among their faithful, but Bjelovar remains a consistently tough nut to crack. While Međimurje is known for its creative midfield, Bjelovar relies on set-pieces and direct play.

• Player to Watch: Josip Magić (Međimurje) – 4 goals in last 3 games.
• Head-to-Head: Bjelovar unbeaten in past 3 face-offs.

Betting Prediction: Tricky result to predict. Suggested Bet: Double Chance Međimurje/Bjelovar, Under 2.5 goals.

Koprivnica vs. Papuk Orahovica: High Stakes, High Drama

Koprivnica have made significant strides since the winter break. Papuk, on the other hand, languish at the wrong end of the table but desperately need a result to avoid relegation worries. Expect open play as both seek to impose themselves.

• Momentum: Koprivnica – 2W 2D 1L; Papuk – 1W 1D 3L.
• Key Matchup: Koprivnica's strikers vs. Papuk's shaky backline.

Betting Prediction: Goals seem likely. Suggested Bet: Koprivnica to win, Both teams to score.

Virovitica vs. Graničar Đurđevac: Battle of Struggling Sides

Both teams are dangerously close to the relegation zone. Virovitica’s home advantage could be a decisive factor, but Graničar is undefeated in their last three away games.

• Recent Results: Virovitica – 1W 1D 3L; Graničar – 2W 2D 1L.
• Injury Watch: Graničar missing key defender Ivan Krstanović.

Betting Prediction: Narrow win for hosts seems plausible. Suggested Bet: Virovitica to win, Under 2.5 goals.

Radnik Križevci vs. Podravac Virje: Home Fortress or Away Surprise?

Križevci's home ground is a daunting venue for visitors, and they boast the best home record in the segment. Podravac have picked up crucial points recently, often playing best when least expected.

• Stat Alert: Križevci conceded just 4 goals at home all season.
• Podravac’s Strength: Counter-attack efficiency.

Betting Prediction: Home victory on the cards, but guard against late drama. Suggested Bet: Križevci to win, Over 1.5 goals.

• Promotion Push: Will Mladost hold their nerve against a resurgent Polet?
• Relegation Dogfight: Are Papuk's struggles terminal, or is a survival rally on the cards?
• Scoring Races: Can Magić of Međimurje close the goal gap to clinch the Top Scorer prize?
• Fan Impact: Varteks expecting a sell-out—how will the atmosphere sway the game?
• Breakout Talents: Watch for young prospects aiming to secure big summer moves.

• Varteks: Full squad available—boost to home ambitions.
• Podravina: Midfielder Dario Knežić—questionable (hamstring strain).
• Mladost: Defender Marko Bađun suspended.
• Graničar: Centre-back Ivan Krstanović—out.
• Papuk Orahovica: Winger Nikola Vuković—doubtful.
• Bjelovar: Keeper Josip Pavić returns from illness.