Good News from Maksimir: Stojković and Zajc Ready for the Return Leg
Medical examinations have shown that neither midfielder has a serious injury, so coach Mario Kovačević should not be without two key players for the decisive match against Viking.
Medical examinations have shown that neither midfielder has a serious injury, so coach Mario Kovačević should not be without two key players for the decisive match against Viking.
Positive news from Maksimir, according to Sportske novosti: neither midfielder has a serious injury. Stojković remained on the pitch against the Norwegian champions until the 68th minute, when he had to stop playing due to ankle problems.
According to reports, Stojković sprained his ankle, but medical findings have revealed nothing more serious. As learned from Maksimir, he will likely be ready for the return leg against Viking. He may also be available for the league match against Varaždin, but Dinamo will not take risks unless necessary.
Coach Mario Kovačević will not force the 22-year-old midfielder if he is not fully fit, especially given the importance of the upcoming European return leg. Still, the fact that the injury is not serious is a great relief for the coaching staff.
Miha Zajc also had problems during the match against Viking and did not finish the game. It is also reported that his injury should not be serious. The Slovenian midfielder should be fit for the return leg in Norway, so Kovačević will likely not be without two key players in midfield for the crucial match.
Dinamo led 2-0 at Maksimir against Viking within the first ten minutes, but the Norwegians equalized to 2-2 by halftime. Therefore, the decision on advancing to the league phase of the Champions League will be made in Stavanger.
Alongside the injury news, Dinamo highlighted an interesting fact on their official Twitter profile. Lisica's goal in the Champions League playoff was Dinamo's 600th goal in European competitions.
The club also posted a message of thanks to fans: "Thank you for your fantastic support. On Saturday, Varaždin comes to Maksimir, and then we travel to Norway for a win worthy of the Champions League! Forward, blue lions!"
Before the return leg in Stavanger, Dinamo hosts NK Varaždin on Saturday, August 22 at 9 PM at Maksimir in the 4th round of the SuperSport HNL. Ticket pre-sale for club members began on Wednesday, August 19 at 11 AM, and general sale starts on Thursday, August 20 at 11 AM. Ticket prices for the West lower tier are €15 for members and €20 for other fans, while the North lower tier is available exclusively to members at €7.
