NK Istra 1961 pulled off a major upset, defeating Hajduk Split 2-1 away from home in the Croatian Football League on January 25, 2026. The shock result at the Stadion Poljud significantly dented Hajduk's title aspirations and provided Istra with a monumental victory in their battle against relegation. Against the run of play, Istra took a surprise lead in the first half with a clinical breakaway. Hajduk piled on the pressure and eventually found an equalizer early in the second half, seemingly setting the stage for a comeback. However, Istra stunned the home supporters by scoring a winner against the flow of play with a well-taken shot from the edge of the area. Hajduk threw everything forward but could not find a second equalizer. The defeat was a huge blow for Hajduk in the championship race, while Istra celebrated a vital three points. The Hajduk manager criticized his team's complacency, and the Istra coach called it the best win of the season.