Damir Kreilach was honoured in an emotional farewell match between HNK Rijeka and Union Berlin at the historic Stadion Kantrida. The former striker, who retired in January, played for both clubs at the iconic seaside ground.
The match kicked off at 19:17, a nod to the number 17 he wore at Rijeka. In the 40th minute, he took the captain's armband from Christopher Trimmel and donned Union Berlin's number 19 shirt. He later also appeared in Rijeka's white kit. After the final whistle, players from both sides formed a guard of honour for the legend.
Around 1,000 Union Berlin fans travelled to Rijeka for the occasion, displaying large banners and their 'Eisern Union' identity. The supporters' group Armada Rijeka 1987 performed a choreography inspired by 'West Side Story'. A large canvas tribute to Kreilach was unfurled on the pitch, and a banner featuring his portrait was permanently installed in the Kantrida stands.
"It was a special and emotional evening and I am still very happy that this match worked out," Kreilach said after the game.
Union Berlin's new coach Mauro Lustrinelli highlighted the significance of such events. "Farewell matches for deserving players of a club are always something special." Lustrinelli stated.
Kreilach made 168 competitive appearances for Rijeka, scoring 56 goals and providing 19 assists. For Union Berlin, he played 157 times. In spring 2026, the German club's fans voted him into their Legends XI team for the club's 60th anniversary. After leaving Europe in 2018, he played for Real Salt Lake and Vancouver Whitecaps before returning to Croatia in 2025. He now works for Rijeka as a loan player manager.
The match ended 0-1 to Union Berlin, with Tim Skarke scoring in the fifth minute. This was Rijeka's last friendly as they now return to HNL action. The team currently sits 5th in the league with 14 points from seven games, just two points behind leaders Dinamo Zagreb. Check the club's detailed stats and full fixtures schedule.
Rijeka's next task is an away fixture against 8th-placed NK Slaven Belupo on Saturday, 10 October.
Read the full report at Faszination Fankurve
