Slaven Belupo claims first points with convincing win over Gorica

Slaven Belupo earned their first victory of the new season, overcoming Gorica 2-0 at home in Koprivnica in the fourth round of the Croatian Football League (HNL). The win lifts Slaven Belupo off the bottom of the table.

Josip Mitrović opened the scoring in the 18th minute, followed by Ilija Nestorovski's goal just three minutes later, in the 21st minute. Both goals came during a three-minute period where Slaven Belupo capitalized on Gorica's defensive lapses.

Mitrović's goal originated from a cross that found him on the right side of the penalty area, where he controlled the ball and scored into the far corner. The second goal came after David Bosak delivered a pass into the box for Nestorovski, who finished from close range.

Gorica's coach, Mario Carević, was sent off after protesting the second goal. Despite Gorica showing more activity in the second half and creating chances, Slaven Belupo's goalkeeper Karlo Sentić made the saves. Slaven Belupo could have extended their lead, hitting the post late in the game and seeing a shot saved by the Gorica goalkeeper.