Osijek Clings to 2nd Spot after Cibalija Game, Above Rijeka & Hajduk.

On game day, against our Vinkovci neighbors, we gaze into the sky, hoping that rain won’t fall that could ruin the ambience. The regional El Classico deserves fair weather and a high viewership count at the stadium, despite the fact that many Croats will attend Vukovar’s Remembrance Day, paying respects to those who fell during Croatia’s defense against the Serbian offensive. That being another anniversary regarding Vukovar, Osijek has an additional incentive to give it their all and rake in points.

Osijek is currently second-placed and currently holds a 2-point advantage in comparison to Rijeka and Hajduk and considering the fact that they play in front of their fans, they must guarantee that the point difference won’t change for the worse after this series.

 

 Perseverance and Skill Required

When exclusively comparing the quality of both teams, including the value of each player, there isno doubt that Osijek is the clear favorite. However, it’s vital to repeat that effort must be put for each victory in the Croatian League because there isn’t an enemy that won’t give it their all because no one is considered unfit. When a team puts all of their being behind the ball and fully tightens the grip, it isn’t easy to break their defense and score.

We don’t doubt that Cibalija will show a higher degree of resolve and courage because their primary goal is not to lose, which, therefore, forces Osijek to show persistence and skill in besieging the enemy penalty area defense. In these circumstances, it is often said that patience is a virtue because game isn’t necessarily determined within the first 30 to 45 minutes. That it won’t be easy is a given and no one in Osijek is deluding himself, however, everything in the announcement boils down to one thing – determination to win must not be broken on this Saturday.