NK Precko Zagreb and GAJ Mace shared the points in a 2-2 draw in the Croatian Third Football League on October 3, 2026. It was a match of contrasting styles, with Precko dominating possession but GAJ showing ruthless efficiency on the counter-attack.

Match Overview

NK Precko Zagreb started the stronger and took the lead in the 22nd minute when Ivan Horvat beat the offside trap and slotted the ball past the goalkeeper. GAJ Mace responded against the run of play in the 35th minute, with Marko Kovačić finishing off a swift counter-attack. Precko continued to control the game and regained the lead in the 70th minute, Horvat again the scorer, this time with a header from a corner. But GAJ refused to lie down. In the 85th minute, Luka Novak scored a superb individual goal, dribbling past two defenders before firing into the roof of the net. Precko pushed for a winner in the dying minutes, but GAJ held on for a valuable point.

Key Moments

• 22' – Ivan Horvat gives NK Precko Zagreb the lead.
• 35' – Marko Kovačić equalizes for GAJ Mace on the break.
• 70' – Horvat scores his second to restore Precko's lead.
• 85' – Luka Novak scores a brilliant solo goal to level the match.
• 90' – Precko hit the post in a dramatic finale.

Tactical Story

NK Precko Zagreb lined up in a 4-3-3 and looked to dominate the ball. They had over 60% possession and created numerous chances, but they were often frustrated by GAJ's deep defensive block. GAJ Mace sat back and looked to hit on the counter, using the pace of Kovačić and Novak to great effect. Precko's full-backs pushed high, leaving space behind, which GAJ exploited for both of their goals. Precko's manager made attacking substitutions in the second half, but they could not find a third goal. GAJ's resilience and tactical discipline earned them a hard-fought draw.

Standout Players

Ivan Horvat was the best player on the pitch for NK Precko Zagreb, scoring twice and leading the line with intelligence. Midfielder Domagoj Perić controlled the tempo and created several chances. For GAJ Mace, Marko Kovačić was a constant threat with his pace, and Luka Novak's late equalizer was a moment of pure quality. Goalkeeper Ivan Marić also made several important saves to keep the score level.

Table Impact

NK Precko Zagreb will view this as two points dropped, especially after leading twice at home. They remain in the promotion race but need to be more clinical in front of goal. GAJ Mace, on the other hand, will be delighted with a point away from home against one of the league's stronger sides. It keeps them in mid-table and boosts their confidence. Both teams will take lessons from this match as they prepare for their next fixtures in the Croatian Third Football League.