Dinamo Zagreb automatically qualified for Europa League, while Rijeka slots into the Conference League, UEFAs 3rd tier club tournament for 2025.
Now, let’s be honest—this is exactly the right tournament for Rijeka. Yes, they’re the reigning Croatian champions, but it’s going to be a long year for them… they simply stink right now and only have one win in 4 matches to start the HNL season.
And unfortunately, Hajduk fans—no Europe for you. That’s what happens when you can’t even get past the fourth-best team in Albania. Brutal.
But hey, two Croatian teams in Europe is still a win, and it’s huge for our country’s coefficient.
Let’s see what a Zvonimir Boban-led Dinamo Zagreb can do. They will play 8 matches vs. Real Betis, Lille, Fenerbahçe, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Steaua Bucharest, Midtylland, Celta Vigo and Malmo. 2 La Liga teams for Dinamo!
Rijeka will play 6 European matches vs. Shakhtar Donetsk, Sparta Prague, Celje from Slovenia, Lincoln Red Imps, AEK Larnaca and Noah from Armenia.
My prediction: both Croatian clubs will finish top-24 in League Phase and play in the knockout rounds after the new year!
I think that as long as Rijeka signs a couple of experienced players, particularly a defensive midfielder and a central defender, then they will do well in that conference league group. The problem with Rijeka is that they look like a youth team out there, with plenty of skill but no experience of how to defend a lead and play smart. Dinamo’s matches will be fun to watch.
It looks like Miskovic has sold Rijeka to an American billionaire for $50 million according to media reports. If this is the case, they will have money to spend on some new signings. To be competitive in Europe they need to strengthen their squad.
Reports also suggest that coach Dalovic will get the sack after this weekend’s match against Hajduk.