Varaždin downs tired Rijeka 2-0, stays perfect atop HNL

NK Varaždin solidified its perfect start to the Croatian First Football League season, securing a 2-0 home victory against a fatigued Rijeka side. The win keeps Varaždin at the summit of the league standings with a maximum of nine points after three matches. Rijeka, with this loss, sits in sixth place with three points and a game in hand.

Striker Ivan Mamut was the decisive figure for Varaždin, netting both goals in the first half. His opening goal came in the 20th minute after a swift attacking move. Mamut received a precise cross into the penalty area and headed the ball past Rijeka's goalkeeper Todorović. He doubled the lead in the 31st minute from the penalty spot, converting a penalty awarded for a handball by Rijeka's Rukavina. Although Todorović came close to saving the spot-kick, Mamut's effort found the back of the net.

Rijeka struggled to create clear chances throughout the first half. Their only significant opportunity came in the 40th minute when Mamut blocked Adu-Adjei's close-range attempt. A subsequent shot from Janković from 16 meters sailed wide of the post. In the second half, Rijeka increased the pressure but failed to break down Varaždin's defense. Varaždin had chances to extend their lead between the 59th and 61st minutes through Latković, Mamut, and Mamić, but none were successful. Rijeka came closest to scoring in the 66th and 74th minutes, but Silić saved Janković's shot, and Puljić's attempt struck the woodwork.