Rijeka showed their teeth, and how! In their second preseason match ahead of the new season, Radomir Đalović’s boys crushed Ukrainian vice-champ Oleksandriya 4-1. Yes, you read that right — 4-1! Ante Majstorović opened the scoring in the 7th minute, Duje Čop added the second in the 33rd, Amer Gojak confirmed dominance in the 83rd, and Ante Matej Jurić scored on his debut in the 88th. The Ukrainian champions managed only a consolation goal by Santos in the 73rd minute.
Coach Đalović didn’t hold back, testing two different squads, focusing on intensity and quality. The club from Kvarner made it clear this is just the start, with plenty to fix before the real season kicks off. The next test is already Wednesday against Čukarički, and Rijeka has already secured the second qualifying round of the Champions League!
The first qualifying match is on July 22 in Rujevica, with the opponent to be decided after the Ludogorets vs. Dinamo Skopje clash. If Ludogorets advance, the return leg is July 30 in Bulgaria; if Dinamo Skopje, then the return is July 29 in Hungary. Rijeka is ready and hungry for success, and we can’t wait to see how this unfolds.
If you think this is just another friendly, think again! Rijeka is sending a clear message: we’re coming for the Champions League and won’t stop until we get there. So, who’s your pick for the title this year? Drop a comment and let’s see who really knows their stuff!
