HNK Rijeka kick off their Europa League second qualifying round against Irish side Derry City tonight at 20:45 on Rujevica. The match will be broadcast live on MAXSport 2, while Net.hr provides a live text feed. Rijeka are looking to build on their domestic form in European competition.

What’s happening on Rujevica tonight?

Rijeka are into the second qualifying round after seeing off Derry City in the Conference League first round. The Irish side exited after a 5-3 aggregate loss to CSKA Sofia and now face Rijeka in the Europa League second qualifying round. Derry City sit sixth in the domestic league after 25 rounds.

Currently fourth in the HNL with 53 points from 14 wins, 11 draws and 11 defeats in 36 games, Rijeka’s recent form reads WDWWD. In their last five matches they have one win, two draws and two losses, with their most recent fixture a 2-0 home win over Gorica on 23 May 2026. They have scored 49 goals and conceded 36, with a +13 goal difference, while they trail Dinamo Zagreb by 33 points in the title race.

Why tonight matters for HNK Rijeka

Tonight’s clash gives Matjaž Kek his first competitive outing back in charge on Rujevica after eight years away. Kek returned to the hotseat this season and now has the chance to steer Rijeka into the third qualifying round. Derry City are in poor domestic form but bring European experience to the fixture.

Last season Rijeka finished fourth in the HNL, securing Conference League football. A win tonight would take them into the Europa League third qualifying round and keep their European hopes alive. Kek will need to use the home advantage and quick transitions to overcome a physically strong but technically limited opponent.

How to follow the match

The HNK Rijeka vs Derry City Europa League qualifier kicks off at 20:45 on Rujevica. Live coverage is on MAXSport 2, with Net.hr providing a live text feed. Rijeka will be aiming to secure maximum points and progress to the next round.

What comes next?

A Rijeka victory would set up a more familiar third-round tie, while defeat would force an immediate domestic focus to secure a top-six finish. Kek’s side must adapt quickly and exploit their strengths to keep their European adventure alive.