Istra 1961 secured a 3-1 victory over Osijek in a match played at Opus Arena, following a comeback. The result marked the third win for the Puljani, while Osijek suffered their third defeat.
Osijek took the lead in the second minute when Šimun Mikolčić scored from a free-kick. The home side then had the chance to extend their lead; in the 18th minute, Osijek’s Leon hit the post with a header, and he had further chances in the 21st and 26th minutes. In the 32nd minute, Istra 1961 had a significant opportunity, but their counter-attack by Škara-Žužić did not result in an equaliser.
The guests from Pul took the lead at 1-1 through a goal by Antonio Maurić in the 34th minute. Following a cross from Frederiksen, Maurić received the ball at the edge of the six-yard box and, with a skillful move, sent it into the home net. Istra 1961 player Tomich hit the frame of the goal, a feat he repeated in the second half when he again targeted the opposition's goal frame.
The turning point came in the 50th minute when 17-year-old Nik Škufar-Žužić scored for Istra 1961, making it 2-1. In the 59th minute, there was another chance for Škufan-Žužić, but Osijek's goalkeeper Maleni made a good save. Five minutes later, the talent Tunji posed a threat for Osijek, but without a definitive finish.
The final 3-1 was secured by Dukan Ahmeti with a goal in the 93rd minute. Osijek remained third in the table with 16 points, the same as second-placed Dinamo, while ahead of them was Hajduk with 19 points. Istra 1961 remained in sixth place, but now has 12 points on their account.
