GNK Dinamo Zagreb have been eliminated from the UEFA Champions League after a 3-1 defeat to Viking FK in Norway. The Croatian champions lost the second leg of the play-off round in Stavanger, resulting in a 5-3 aggregate defeat following a 2-2 draw in Zagreb.
Viking advance to the Champions League group stage with a 5-3 aggregate score, while Dinamo will now drop into the Europa League group phase. The match was played on Tuesday, with Dinamo taking an early lead through Arbër Hoxha in the 10th minute. The Norwegian side turned the game around with goals from Zlatko Tripić from the penalty spot in the 18th minute, Edvin Austbo in the 48th, and Tobias Moi in the 50th minute.
How Dinamo lost their advantage in Norway
Dinamo started the match strongly and enjoyed greater possession. Luka Stojković missed a big chance in the ninth minute but assisted for the lead just a minute later. After a controversial penalty awarded to Viking, Tripić equalised. Although Dinamo dominated until half-time, two quick goals at the start of the second period turned the tie. A mistake by goalkeeper Ivan Nevistić led to the second goal, and the third came from a deflection off a defender.
What the defeat means for the club's European journey
Exclusion from the Champions League has significant financial implications for Dinamo. Qualification for the Champions League group stage would have guaranteed at least €27.5 million in UEFA prize money. Now, with entry into the Europa League, the club can expect approximately €14.6 million. These funds are vital for the season's budget and plans. The current squad and player statistics can be viewed on our squad page.
What are the next steps for the team
Dinamo will now continue their European journey in the Europa League. Their first group stage match against AS Monaco is scheduled for October 1st. Before that, the club must focus on the domestic league where they currently lead the HNL table by five points. The schedule for all upcoming matches is available on the fixtures page.
How other Croatian clubs are faring in Europe
Dinamo was the last Croatian representative in the top club competition, and their exit leaves Croatia without a club in this season's Champions League. Rijeka and Hajduk are competing in the Conference League. Dinamo has the strongest financial position of all domestic clubs, which is also evident in their ability to retain key players. The current HNL standings can be followed here: standings.
UEFA has sanctioned Dinamo for breaching a previous conditional punishment. The club must pay a €40,000 fine and close part of the north stand for their next European match at Maksimir. Mario Kovačević and his players now prepare for an away match against Istra 1961 on Saturday.
