Rijeka clinches 2‑1 win over Rudeš in opening HNL round
HNK Rijeka on August 1 2026 at Rujevica defeated returning side Rudeš 2‑1, kicking off the season with a triumphant performance. Goals came from Justas Lasickas (31') and Daniel Adu‑Adjei (62'), while Stefan Vukić softened Rudeš's defeat in the 70th minute.
How did the match unfold?
From the first whistle Rijeka dominated possession, and the visiting Rudeš struggled to keep the ball in attack. In the 3rd minute Adu‑Adjei found a good position, but his shot was saved by Rogić. Seven minutes later Devetak had a big chance, but he headed the ball three metres wide. The first Rijeka goal arrived in the 31st minute: Fruk and Rukavina combined on the left wing, Lasickas received the ball and struck from seven metres into the net.
What does it mean for Rijeka?
The win boosts Rijeka's confidence for the season and confirms their ability to control games against similar or lower‑ranked teams. It also lifts the club to 4th place in the final 2025 table – 53 points, 14 wins, 11 draws, 11 losses, with recent form WDWWD. Season stats show 49 goals scored and 36 conceded (+13 goal difference), a solid foundation for a top‑flight challenge.
What comes next?
Rijeka continues its positive trend, with the next fixture a home clash against Istra 1961 on August 22 2026. This match will be crucial for consolidating an eighth‑place league standing. Meanwhile, the club prepares for further challenges, with the coach and players emphasizing the need to maintain clean play and capitalize on chances. Given the current shape, Rijeka can stay in the hunt for the top, though they sit 33 points behind league leaders Dinamo Zagreb.
Additional context
In their most recent result, HNK Rijeka beat HNK Gorica 2‑0 on May 23 2026, and their recent form (3 wins, 1 draw in the last four matches) shows they are unbeaten in the last four games. These statistics provide extra insight into the club's current progress and set the stage for further analysis.
