Zrinjski vs Sarajevo

Match Overview

In the standout fixture of this round in Bosnia, current champions Zrinjski are set to clash with last season’s bronze medalists, Sarajevo.

Zrinjski’s European Campaign and Domestic Focus

Zrinjski commenced their season with UEFA Champions League qualification, meaning the hosts are already in excellent competitive rhythm. The Bosnian champions played eight European qualifiers, securing three victories, three draws, and two defeats. Noteworthy performances include draws against Utrecht and Slovan. With their European commitments concluded, the hosts are now fully concentrated on the domestic championship, where they aim to climb out of the lower half of the league table.

Defensive Solidity and Squad Depth

Zrinjski’s squad boasts numerous Croatian players, with a particularly strong defensive line and goalkeeper. The Bosnian side has now kept two consecutive clean sheets and, over 180 minutes, allowed opponents only one shot on target.

Sarajevo’s Previous Season and Current Woes

Sarajevo secured bronze medals last season, narrowly surpassing Željezničar on additional metrics. The club largely maintained its core group of players, with the transfer of Babunja to Orenburg being the most notable departure. However, something appears to have broken down within the visitors’ system this new season. Guliyashvili and Turkes, who together netted 23 goals in the previous championship, have almost stopped scoring. Their European campaign saw an early exit in the first round of the Conference League against Universitatea (2-1, 0-4). This poor form culminated in coach Zekić’s dismissal following a 1-2 defeat to Sloga Doboj.

New Leadership and Initial Performance

Sarajevo’s new head coach has a history with the club, having managed them previously. In his first three league matches at the helm, the team recorded two home victories but also suffered a devastating away loss.