Varaždin enters the final round sitting in third place, needing a positive result to officially lock in their European qualification spot. The hosts hold a narrow one-point advantage over Rijeka, making this a high-stakes scenario to guarantee their position.

Istra 1961 is mathematically stuck in mid-table, meaning they arrive at Stadion Varteks with no competitive pressure or tangible season objectives remaining. This dead-rubber dynamic typically leads to a natural drop in physical intensity, particularly away from home.

Despite their lack of stakes, the visitors have put together a stubborn run in recent weeks. Istra has kept two consecutive clean sheets and taken seven points from their last three matches, proving they can still organize well defensively.

Varaždin has built reliable momentum on their own ground down the stretch to counter that resistance. They are unbeaten in their last four home fixtures, conceding just three goals in that span while controlling matches in front of their supporters.

Given the stark contrast in motivation and the occasion of a final home fixture, everything sets up for the hosts. Varaždin's attacking urgency and absolute need for three points should ultimately break down Istra's lingering defensive block.