NK Osijek enters this HNL clash as clear favorites at home on the back of three wins in their first four matches, scoring nine goals while sitting third in the table and chasing a potential top spot. Recent results include a 6-1 rout of Rudeš and a 2-0 victory over Gorica, though a 0-4 setback at Hajduk highlighted defensive vulnerabilities that new coach Federico Bessone aims to address. Slaven Belupo, eighth with just three points, has conceded nine goals in four games and remains winless in eight away outings, with ongoing defensive issues and multiple injuries further limiting their threat. Osijek’s attacking output at Opus Arena, combined with Slaven’s road struggles and early-season form gap, underpins trader consensus favoring the hosts while leaving room for a draw given the visitors’ occasional resilience in direct meetings.