Dinamo traveled to Lithuania without stress, holding a massive 5:0 advantage from the first leg. Coach Mario Kovačević is preparing the lineup for Kaunas, with an eye already on the Champions League playoff against Norway's Viking.
Dinamo's players traveled to Lithuania on Monday, where they face Kauno Žalgiris in the return leg on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 7 PM. After a 5:0 win at Maksimir, progression to the Champions League playoff is practically secured, where Norwegian champions Viking await. The first leg against the Norwegians is scheduled for Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Maksimir.
The SHNL derby with Rijeka was postponed due to both clubs' European commitments, and the Blues will play a domestic league match against Rudeš before facing Viking, on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 8 PM at Maksimir. Clearly, the absolute priority at this moment is securing a place in the Champions League, a competition that brings a massive financial boost and a peaceful domestic season.
As for the lineup for Kaunas, Mario Kovačević won't experiment too much. Rest for certain individuals is planned for the Rudeš match, while the strongest possible lineup will take the field in Lithuania. Ivan Filipović will be in goal, with the standard back four of Valinčić, Dominguez, McKenna, and Perez-Vinlof.
A change could come in midfield. Miha Zajc picked up two yellow cards in European matches, and it's logical to rest him so he's ready for the Norwegian champions. His spot in the starting XI alongside Josip Mišić and Luka Stojković could be taken by Lukas Kačavenda. The young midfielder has been brilliant at the start of the season, already scoring two goals in Champions League qualifying-one against Thun and one against Kauno Žalgiris.
The attacking line is also fairly clear. Mateo Lisica should start on the right wing, Dion Drena Beljo as the striker, and Mislav Oršić is expected on the left from the first minute. The experienced winger is still searching for his first official goal since returning to Dinamo, but there's no cause for concern at the club. Oršić has always been a slow starter in his best days, needing time to hit top form. The return leg in Kaunas is the perfect opportunity to break the ice.
Meanwhile, official confirmation from Maksimir has arrived regarding Mounsef Bakrar's departure. The striker, who scored 18 goals last season, will continue his career with Egyptian club Al Ahly. "Dear Baki, thank you for everything!" the club said in a social media post.
After the match in Lithuania, big changes are expected for the SHNL clash with Rudeš. According to unofficial reports from Maksimir, former Rijeka center-back pairing Galešić and Radeljić could start that match. But first up is Kauno Žalgiris.
