Jelavić calls draw realistic as Mojstrovič laments missed win for Gorica

Gorica and Lokomotiva failed to impress in the opening match of the 11th round of the Croatian First Football League, ending their contest in a 0-0 draw. Lokomotiva head coach Nikica Jelavić assessed the outcome as the most realistic result given the flow of the game.

Jelavić acknowledged that his side did not start well, appearing nervous on the ball and lacking necessary aggression. He noted that Gorica dominated certain periods of the first half, but Lokomotiva stabilized in the second period and created opportunities to score.

The Lokomotiva manager also highlighted squad issues, confirming that players Lorber and Karačić had suffered injuries. Jelavić stated he would evaluate the list of injured players before making further decisions on the team's direction.

On the opposing bench, Gorica assistant Denis Mojstrovič provided the post-match comments because head coach Mario Carević was serving a suspension. Mojstrovič viewed the single point as a positive outcome but expressed regret over not securing all three points.

Mojstrovič claimed his team dominated possession and reached the final third effectively throughout the 90 minutes. However, he admitted a lack of concreteness in the final pass and finishing prevented them from converting their control into goals.

Looking ahead, Gorica faces an away fixture against Hajduk in the upcoming round. Mojstrovič emphasized the need for rest and preparation to face Hajduk, who he described as being in good rhythm.