The Blues lost 2-1 to Ajax in the final of the Mladen Ramljak Memorial, with a consolation goal for Zagreb scored by Kalojan Božkov in stoppage time. Hajduk clinched bronze against Benfica after a penalty shootout drama.
Dinamo Zagreb's footballers were defeated 2-1 by Ajax Amsterdam in the final of the Mladen Ramljak Memorial Tournament. The match, played on Sunday at Maksimir, was also the last game on the main pitch of that Zagreb stadium before its demolition.
The Dutch took the lead in the 24th minute when the unfortunate Karlo Zirdum scored into his own net. Ajax doubled their advantage in the 66th minute with a goal from Kennynha Kasanwirjo. Dinamo could only manage to soften the defeat by the end - Kalojan Božkov scored for the Blues in stoppage time.
The Blues opened the tournament with a narrow 3-2 loss to Juventus, but then they completely exploded. First, they thrashed Club Brugge 5-1, and then they beat Benfica 4-1. Those results propelled them into the hunt for the trophy, while Juventus from Turin further complicated their situation with a heavy 5-0 defeat to Benfica in the second round.
In the third-place match, Hajduk faced Benfica. After a 1-1 draw in regular time, the Split side were cooler from the penalty spot and thus claimed the bronze medal.
The day before the final, Dinamo emphasized the symbolism of the match on social media.
"For the last time on the main pitch of Maksimir 💙🏟️ Tomorrow we face a historic moment: the #Ramljak26 final on the main pitch of Maksimir, for the last time before the stadium's demolition,"they posted, urging fans to fill the West Stand below.
Beyond the sporting events, Dinamo also confirmed a new name in the dressing room. The transfer of 19-year-old Noah Nsoki from Paris Saint-Germain has been officially completed.
"The talented 19-year-old, born in Tournan-en-Brie, near Paris, arrives at Maksimir from PSG, with whom he won two U19 French championship titles, as well as last year's senior Ligue 1 title and the Trophée des Champions, the French Super Cup,"the club announced.
Nsoki, who plays as a left winger and attacking midfielder, will wear the number 77 shirt at Dinamo.
