Virus and injury hit Dinamo Zagreb before Cup tie

Coach Mario Kovačević confirmed several Dinamo players have recovered from a virus and Bruno Goda suffered a head injury, but both should be ready for Sunday's Croatian Cup match against Vukovar.

GNK Dinamo Zagreb begin their Croatian Cup title defence dealing with a virus and an injury, but coach Mario Kovačević has set a clear target. The Blues play their round of 16 match against Vukovar on Sunday, October 4th at 4 PM, following a two-week break from competitive action.

Kovačević left no doubt about the team's objective. "In the Cup, the goal is always to advance. We made good use of these two weeks, we worked well." the coach said.

Fitness concerns

Preparations have been impacted by a head injury and a dressing-room virus. In a friendly match against Segesta in Sisak, played in two halves with squad players and youth team members, Bruno Goda was hurt. "Unfortunately, Goda got hurt. He took a blow to the forehead and has six stitches, but I believe he'll also be ready for next week," Kovačević added.

A virus also struck the squad. "As for the virus, yes, four or five players were infected, but they've recovered and started training." the manager explained.

The team that played in Sisak will be in the squad for Vukovar, offering chances to those with fewer minutes and younger talents. Dinamo are coming off a 3-2 win over Lokomotiva two weeks ago and currently lead the HNL with 16 points from seven games. Their top scorer this season is D. Beljo with nine goals in six appearances.

Context and challenges

Their opponent, Vukovar, sits 13th in the SuperSport Prva NL. The teams have met four times in the league this season, with Dinamo winning three and Vukovar one. While this is the first official match after the break, the schedule intensifies quickly. After Vukovar comes a key away derby against second-placed Hajduk Split at Poljud on October 10th, followed by a Europa League home match against Anderlecht at Maksimir.

Dinamo's recent form shows three wins, one draw and one loss from their last five matches. Coach Kovačević made it clear Vukovar will not be underestimated, emphasising the players' serious approach. Dinamo Zagreb start their cup defence intent on progressing towards another trophy.

Background and full detail: Gol.hr