Just when you thought it was over, Rijeka overtook Dinamo on Saturday at Maksimir, closing the gap between the clubs to six points with four matches to go.
Dinamo passed a tough test at Poljud last week, greatly increasing their odds of being once again crowned champions of Croatia, but they had one last difficult hill to climb when they hosted Rijeka this past weekend. Anything short of loss would have all but secured the title for the Modri.
But even without the league-leading scorer, Heber, Rijeka fought for a well-earned 1-0 victory at Maksimir and continue to pressure Dinamo to retain their title. It was Rijeka’s first win at Maksimir in eight years.
Rijeka’s goal came in the 39th minute from a goal-of-the -year candidate struck by Boadu-Maxwell Acosty. The Ghanian struck an absolute stunner from distance give Rijeka the ultimate lead.
Dinamo remains on top, six points clear of Rijeka.
Hajduk Split wasted a prime opportunity to continue their hunt for their first championship in 13 years, but dropped points away to Slaven in a scoreless draw. Hajduk were passed up by victorious Rijeka and now sit in third place, seven points behind Dinamo.
NK Osijek fell to NK Lokomotiva at Kranjceviceva on Saturday, but have secured a fourth place finish. They are 12 points a head of Inter Zapresic, but secured the spot with +15 goal differential.
NK Rudes may have secured safety for their club after earning their seventh win of the season over Cibalia. Rudes are now in eighth place, five points a head of the possible relegation spot, a spot occupied by NK Istra. Cibalia remains in 10th place.
Ya I agree, I think Moro and Majer could be better down the road. I just feel that Coric’s lack of pace and defensive toughness makes it hard to play in the middle of the park. But I haven’t seen them play recently.
2nd place remains hot. Not the title race
Wouldn’t be surprised to see Ćorić fizzle out as a slightly above average player but then have someone like Majer become a star.
These guys are so young, it’s so hard to gauge.
Modrić became a star, when we were all looking at Kranjčar.
Halilović was the next big one, then Pjaca came out if nowhere and surpassed Jim.
I would not be surprised to see Moro or Majer zip right by Ćorić.
Majer has probably made a bigger impact at Lokomotiva than Coric has at Dinamo, and I’d also say he’s a more natural goal scorer but overall as players, I’d say Coric as he’s the more skilled and experienced player. Admittedly, I haven’t watched Majer play nearly as much as I’ve seen Coric.
I’ve heard lots of talk of Coric leaving, but Dinamo so far has denied all offers for him (upwards of 12 million euros). So unless they’re just holding out for a bigger payday (quite possibly), he might stick around another season.
As for Majer, I’ve read everywhere from Sapdoira, Celtic, Everton, etc are making offers. So, that’s up in the air.
@ Colin
Who do you think is better; Majer or Coric? I haven’t had a chance to watch any of their games of late.
Also, do you think if they’ll be moving this summer? I’d prefer for them to stay and at least try to get into Europa league with Croatian clubs (if Majer moves to a new Croatian club).