Varaždin draw with Istra to move temporarily top of Croatian league

Varaždin moved temporarily to the top of the Croatian league after drawing 0-0 with Istra 1961 in the opening match of the sixth round.

The hosts created the better chances, beginning with Mamić’s sixth-minute shot that grazed the post. Mladenovski then headed over from a corner. Istra responded through Šepić, whose long-range effort failed to trouble the home side.

Varaždin continued to press after the break. Istra goalkeeper Kolić kept out attempts from Mladenovski and Maglica, then recovered after coming out and missing the ball in the 68th minute. He later saved Uchegbu’s effort in the 86th.

Uchegbu came closest to breaking the deadlock in stoppage time, but his volley struck the crossbar. Varaždin now have 13 points, one more than Osijek, who have played one fewer match. Dinamo and Hajduk have 10 points each, also with games in hand, while Istra moved up to sixth.