Škafar Žužić shows explosive talent Croatia desperately needs On Saturday in SHNL, 17-year-old Nik Škafar Žužić played a standout match for Istria against Lokomotiva. Though his team lost 3-2, it was his first start and he immediately showed the explosive winger Croatia desperately lacks. League standing: 2nd in World Cup, 6 pts, 2W-0D-1L from 3 games, recent form LWWL. ## How did Škafar Žužić show his talent? Škafar Žužić assisted Istria's first goal in the 30th minute, and scored himself shortly after, though it was disallowed by VAR. He also had three shots, 12 of 15 accurate passes, and won seven of 12 duels. ## Why is Škafar Žužić such a talent? Though his senior sample size is small, Škafar Žužić offers exactly what Croatia lacks - explosiveness, directness and penetration. He's considered one of Croatia's biggest talents. ## What's next for Škafar Žužić? Škafar Žužić made his HNL debut last season but only played 60 minutes across four appearances. Already this season he's shown he's ready for senior football, and could become the penetrating winger Croatia needs. Transfermarkt values him at €200,000, he was born in Postojna, Slovenia, and has 17 U-17 caps with seven goals.