- Istra are 5th in the HNL 2025/2026 table with 19pts from 14 games.
- Slaven are 3rd with 21pts after 14 games.
Istra have the edge with home advantage and in form
This NK Istra 1961 Pula vs NK Slaven Belupo preview looks at how Istra will be looking to build on the impressive 2-1 home victory over Dinamo Zagreb when they host Slaven on Saturday. They were less impressive at HNK Gorica in their following away game, losing 1-0. They have won four of their seven home games in HNL 2025/2026, drawing two and losing one, averaging 1.29 goals scored per game and 1.14 goals conceded per game.
Slaven will be hoping to bounce back from the 1-1 draw they had at NK Lokomotiva with a win at Istra, after a convincing 4-1 home win over Vukovar 91. Mario Gregurina has impressed since taking over as Slaven’s manager in July 2025, improving the organisation and structure within the team.
Opposing styles clash
Istra are a high-tempo, front-foot side, with an aggressive 4-2-3-1 system employed by Oriol Riera since he took over as manager in September 2025. NK Istra 1961 Pula vs NK Slaven Belupo prediction is likely to come down to whether Istra’s energetic, pressing style can break down Slaven’s defensive discipline. Slaven are a more structure-first team, who will sit deep, narrow their midfield and try to keep things compact. They will be disciplined in possession, preferring to play direct and look to counter-attack, or try to create chances from set plays. This game will be a battle of wills with transitions and in-game adjustments set to play a big role in the outcome.
In-form forward can make the difference
Lawal Fago is the top scorer for Istra this season with 3 HNL goals in 14 appearances, scoring 2 in his last 5. The NK Istra 1961 Pula vs NK Slaven Belupo betting tips suggest Istra will need him to be on his A-game in this one to unlock the Slaven defense and provide some flair up front.
Slaven are a team that are in a good position in the table and are undefeated in their last 5 matches. They will be a hard team to beat on Saturday. Istra’s 3 recent home games have resulted in a win, draw and defeat, respectively. Slaven have avoided defeat in their last 2 away games with a draw and a win.
Our NK Istra 1961 Pula vs NK Slaven Belupo prediction is that this will be a tight contest. Istra are the bookies’ favorites at 2.33 with Slaven listed as the underdogs at 3.06 and the draw at 3.15. I would be inclined to bet the under 2.5 goals market at 1.73, as this will likely be a cagey affair with few goals scored.
