NK Uskok 1-1 HNK Gorica: Hosts Earn Memorable Cup Night

NK Uskok produced one of the most resilient performances of the Croatian Cup round on 9 September 2026, holding higher-ranked HNK Gorica to a 1-1 draw. Against opponents with more experience and quality across the pitch, the home side showed enormous determination and gave their supporters a night to remember.

Gorica controlled much of the first half and made their territorial pressure count when they found the net with a well-worked move. The visitors looked comfortable at that stage, moving the ball efficiently and limiting Uskok’s time on the ball. However, the home side refused to fade.

How Uskok fought back

After the break, Uskok pushed higher up the pitch and began to win important second balls. Their equaliser came from a moment of real belief, as a direct attack forced Gorica into a defensive mistake and the hosts finished clinically. The goal changed the atmosphere completely, with the home crowd suddenly daring to believe in a cup surprise.

Gorica responded by dominating possession again in the final 20 minutes, but Uskok defended with discipline and remained dangerous on the break. The match ended all square at 1-1, a result that felt like a significant achievement for the lower-league side and a reminder to Gorica that no away tie in the Croatian Cup can be taken lightly.