In May 1979, HNK Rijeka welcomed their fiercest rival, GNK Dinamo Zagreb, to their home ground at Rujevica. This match, etched in the memories of fans and players, was not just another derby; it marked a turning point in the club's history. At that moment, Rijeka was on the brink of a historic success, and a victory against Dinamo was crucial not only in the context of the league but also for the team’s confidence.

In that encounter, Rijeka managed to overcome Dinamo with a score of 2-1. Goals from legendary players like Ivan Kostić and Ante Galić not only brought joy to Rujevica but also ignited a spark of hope for the club's future. This victory was not just a fleeting success; it laid the groundwork for future achievements and created a new generation of players who wore the white jersey with pride.

The 1979 match symbolized HNK Rijeka's return to the top of Croatian football, and the victory over Dinamo further solidified the rivalry between these two clubs. Fans reconnected with the team, and the atmosphere in the stadium was electric, filled with passion and hope.

This victory also had long-term implications. Following this success, Rijeka continued to build a team that would become competitive on both domestic and European stages in the years to come. The players involved in that match became legends of the club, and their titles and accolades testify to the significance of that moment.

Ultimately, the 1979 victory was not just another result on the table; it laid the foundation for the modern history of HNK Rijeka. Today, as we remember that historic moment, it is clear that this derby was more than just a game - it was a moment that forever changed the face of the club and the path that lay ahead.