Second Football League (Croatia)
The Croatian Second Football League, commonly Druga NL or 2. NL, is the third tier of the Croatian [football league system]. The league was established in 1991, following the dissolution of the Yugoslav League. It is operated by the Croatian Football Federation.
It was previously known as the Third Football League, but was renamed with the other leagues for the start of the 2022–23 season.
Rules
, at least three players under 21 years of age must play in each match, and only two foreign nationals are permitted to play for each team.Format
Since its inception in 1992, the league has changed formats several times. In its inaugural season, the league had four divisions. In the 1992–93 season, a fifth division was added. The five-group league continued until the 2006–07 season when the league was re-organised and reduced to three geographical divisions with 18 clubs in each group.As of 2018, teams are promoted only if they have a valid license to the 2.HNL. For example, NK Vinogradar won the 2017, 2018 and 2019 west division, but were denied promotion since they did not apply for a license.
From the season 2022–23 onward, it is a unified league just as the top two tiers.
Champions
1998–2022
Key| † | Club gained promotion to the unified 2. HNL |
| N | Club gained promotion to 2. HNL North |
| S | Club gained promotion to 2. HNL South |