Croatia edged Slovenia 2-1 in a friendly at Stadion Varteks, with M. Pasalic settling the match in the 90th minute plus three when he converted an assist from J. Stanisic. L. Modric had given Croatia the lead in the 51st minute, finishing from a ball supplied by I. Perisic, but A. Sporar levelled for Slovenia in the 83rd minute to force a nervy finale. Croatia dominated proceedings with 66 percent possession and 19 shots to Slovenia's 13, though the hosts managed only five on target against four for the visitors — a margin that kept the outcome in doubt deep into stoppage time.

As a friendly, this result carries no direct table implications, but the manner of Croatia's win offered meaningful signals. Holding a lead against a fellow UEFA nation, conceding with seven minutes to play, and still finding a winner in stoppage time demonstrates a competitive resilience that will matter as both sides prepare for upcoming fixtures. Croatia's dominance in possession and chances throughout suggests a coherent shape even with the heavy rotation applied at half-time, when three starters were withdrawn simultaneously. For Slovenia, the ability to test Croatia late — cutting the deficit to one and briefly earning a draw — despite 34 percent possession and fewer opportunities, shows a disciplined defensive structure that will give their coaching staff cause for measured confidence.