HNK Rijeka claimed a crucial three points in the Croatian First Football League with a 3-2 home victory over Istra 1961 at Stadion Rujevica. The match was played on Sunday in front of 5,371 spectators, with the match report filed by Siniša Lončar for Sportske novosti.
The hosts took the lead in the 18th minute through an own goal by visiting defender Nasraoui. Franko Puljić scored his first goal since returning to the club from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute. The decisive third goal for Rijeka was netted by Antonio Fruk in the 53rd minute with a superb strike from the edge of the box. Istra fought back with goals from Jaganjac in the 71st minute and Frederiksen in the third minute of added time, but it wasn't enough to salvage a point.
How did the match at Rujevica unfold?
Rijeka took control of the game from the first whistle. Puljić tested visiting goalkeeper Kolić as early as the first minute. The home pressure culminated in the 18th minute when Dantas found Lasickas on the left, and his cross ended up in the net after a touch from Nasraoui. Although Istra looked for chances on the counter, the Rijeka defence marshalled by Todorović held firm. Just before halftime, VAR determined that Kadušić had handled the ball inside the area. Puljić converted the retaken penalty after Kolić saved his initial attempt.
In the second half, Fruk scored a goal of the season contender with a precise left-footed shot into the far corner. "That seemed to anger the Rijeka virtuoso," wrote Lončar, describing the moment just before the goal. Rijeka had a chance for a fourth goal, but Janković was not accurate from an excellent position. A defensive error allowed Jaganjac to pull one back in the 71st minute. Istra continued to press, and Frederiksen headed home in stoppage time, but time ran out for a complete comeback.
What is Rijeka's current position in the league?
This win brought Rijeka important points in the fight for the top of the table. According to our live data on the standings page, the club is positioned near the very top of the competition. Manager Matjaž Kek recorded his 19th victory against Istra 1961 since arriving at the club in 2013. His team showed character in the finale, even though they conceded two late goals. The squad lineup and individual player statistics can be followed on our squad page.
Who were the key players in the victory?
Antonio Fruk confirmed his status as a key player with a goal and an overall excellent performance. Franko Puljić scored on his return to the club and showed he can be an important factor in attack. The defence, aside from the own goal, was solid for most of the match, with Todorović making several good saves. On the other hand, Janković had several opportunities but failed to convert. Second-half substitutions, introducing Gojak and Pavić, were meant to refresh the play, but Rijeka still allowed too many chances late on.
What's next for HNK Rijeka?
The team now prepares for upcoming European challenges. The next league fixture on the schedule is an important derby match. The full match calendar can be found on the fixtures page. Manager Kek will have the task of eliminating the defensive lapses that appeared at the end of this match. Rijeka will aim to maintain the high tempo and possession control they showed in the first hour against Istra. The next match at Rujevica is scheduled for Saturday.
