Watching someone who truly knows their job is a pleasure, and Nikola Šafarić is a maestro par excellence. He is not just a football coach; he is a person who genuinely understands the game. He comprehends game dynamics beautifully, reads the game well, and positions his team effectively on the pitch. He prefers possession-oriented, fluid football but also knows how to maximize his team’s performance defensively.

The day was rainy, making the pitch wet and quick, which contributed to fast and technically demanding football.

Šafarić set his team up in a 4-2-3-1 system, maintaining a compact shape off the ball. Despite this compact play, it was evident that Dinamo was the stronger team on the pitch during the first half. Dinamo was very aggressive, winning most of the loose balls, holding over 60% possession, and not allowing Varaždin much opportunity. They scored from a mistake in Varaždin’s buildup and could have scored a few more times in the first half.

In the second half, Varaždin began to threaten Dinamo with counterattacks, playing quickly and vertically. It seemed that Dinamo’s midfield had lowered its intensity from the first half and lost its aggression. Varaždin quickly developed their possession game. Latković capitalized on the situation, showcasing his skills with the ball. He redeemed himself for the mistake that led to Dinamo’s first-half goal and scored a wonderful goal after a few technically proficient moves and smart transitional decisions.

Kovačević fielded his standard team for Dinamo. While they dominated possession, the midfield trio struggled to fully develop their playing style. However, due to effective counter-pressing, they managed to create clear chances and even score once, with the possibility of adding more. In possession, Vidović and Beljo found themselves somewhat isolated, but despite Dinamo’s excellent chances, Varaždin’s players held firm in the first half.

In the second half, it appeared that Dinamo’s players had lowered their aggression and tempo, which resulted in more space for Varaždin’s players on the ball. As a result, the match transitioned to a more open style of play.

After facing a deficit in the match, Kovačević changed the formation to a 4-4-2, bringing in Kulenović and Bakrar as two strikers. He also introduced the young player Varela on the right wing and Hoxha on the left. Villar and Mišić played as holding midfielders. Despite having several chances, Dinamo only managed to equalize with a penalty.

Overall, it was an enjoyable match to watch: the first half showcased control, while the second half featured more transitional football. Dinamo was the better team on the pitch and perhaps deserved to win, but Šafarić’s superb game reading and tactically brave approach allowed him to secure a draw, effectively exploiting everything Dinamo offered. Bravo to him for that.