The stakes for this late-season clash are non-existent, with Hajduk Split guaranteed to finish second and Lokomotiva Zagreb comfortably settled in mid-table. This lack of pressure often translates to looser tactical setups as players naturally drop their defensive intensity.

Both sides will be forced into structural changes due to a mix of suspensions and injuries. Lokomotiva lose vital physical presence with center-back Denis Kolinger suspended, while Hajduk travel without defensive stabilizer Niko Sigur and midfield regular Filip Krovinović.

Hajduk's attack has been ruthless against teams outside the top three when playing on the road. Recent trips against the league's weaker defenses saw them put three past Istra and six past Vukovar, proving they don't need much invitation to push forward.

Keeping opponents off the board has been a season-long struggle for the hosts, who have recorded just six clean sheets across 34 matches. They concede consistently at home, a vulnerability that aligns perfectly with Hajduk's offensive capabilities.

With the market heavily leaning toward goals and both defenses missing key personnel, backing an open contest is the sharpest approach. The absence of relegation fear or title desperation means neither side has a reason to sit back and protect a draw.