As the anticipation builds for the upcoming clash in the HNL at Stadion Rujevica Stadium in Croatia, set for Sunday, April 13th, we explore the contrasting journeys and thrilling numbers. What do the stats reveal about the dynamics between HNK Rijeka and NK Varaždin? Looking back at their recent three encounters, HNK Rijeka has yet to taste victory, while NK Varaždin has managed to secure one win, leaving the other two matches as stalemates. Their latest face-off on the 1st of February this year saw NK Varaždin clinching a narrow 1-0 victory at home. With this historical edge, can NK Varaždin maintain their lead, or is it time for Rijeka to change the narrative?

Delving deeper into their recent performances, HNK Rijeka enters this faceoff following a 1-0 triumph over NK Lokomotiva Zagreb, showcasing their hunger for success. In stark contrast, NK Varaždin shared the spoils with a goalless draw against HNK Gorica. This ongoing season positions HNK Rijeka as strong contenders in the 2nd spot of the domestic league, whereas NK Varaždin follows behind in the 5th position. Thus, the question arises: Will Rijeka capitalize on their higher standings and momentum to emerge victorious?

The individual brilliance within these teams adds another layer to the narrative. T. Fruk stands as Rijeka's ace with 9 goals under his belt, a potential game-changer NK Varaždin needs to counter meticulously. Conversely, HNK Rijeka's defense will need to keep a close watch on L. Mamić, whose creativity has led him to provide 4 crucial assists for Varaždin this season. If we consider player ratings, HNK Rijeka boasts top performances by Franjo Ivanović at 7.5, Ivan Smolčić with 7.32, and Josip Posavec at 7.3. On the other side, NK Varaždin's finest are Dimitar Mitrovski with 7.21, Ivan Nekić at 7.12, and Lamine Ba scoring a solid 7.04. These players might be pivotal in seizing control of the match.

The tactical strategies at play can also be dissected through possession and corner stats. Rijeka maintains an average possession rate of 48.04%, slightly trailing behind Varaždin's 49.71%, a difference that could tilt the game. Predicting corners, Rijeka averages 5.04 per match compared to Varaždin’s 3.93, implying that Rijeka might create more set-piece opportunities. Discipline-wise, both teams have similar stats, with Rijeka having received 53 yellow and 3 red cards, while Varaždin has amassed 58 yellow and only 1 red card. Each side has been tested in terms of penalties, but will these affect their gameplay on game day?

In the realm of football, where current form and streaks play crucial roles, HNK Rijeka's recent win and higher rank suggest they might hold the upper hand. However, NK Varaždin's past success and mental edge could make this matchup an enticingly close contest. As the whistle blows, the stage is set for yet another intriguing battle in Croatia.