Steinbruckner’s pupils tied against Dinamo at Maksimir stadium, while Hajduk awaits them in the finals.
Osijek’s U17 made it to the Croatian Cup finals! In the semi-finals rematch played on the artificial field at Maksimir, Tomislav Steinbruckner’s pupils secured the lead from the first match in which they won 2-1 in front of many fans and played 0-0 this Wednesday in Zagreb.
The home team had the advantage and initative on the field, but Osijek held their ground, especially in the backline, so that they made the opponent’s efforts naught. In the first part of the match, Dinamo was on the offensive, however, Osijek successfully closed the gaps at their gates so that there weren’t any significant advances to Dubrovic’s turf. The away team focused on counterattacks with Kupresak finding himself in one particular instance, but the nets remained untouched by the ball in these 40 minutes.
The Brilliant Luka Dubrovic!
The remainder of the game went in the same fashion, except for Dinamo increasing the pressure, but failing to find the score. Hasic was the most frequent threar, but Osijek’s national team goalkeeper saved every menacing ball in the penalty area. In the middle part of the second half, he showed his cat-like reflexes during the home team’s best offensive play and showed his calm during vicious attacks from a distance.
In any case, Osijek deservingly passes onto the finals with their fighting spirit, engaged and disciplined play.
Osijek’s squad were: Dubrović, Keć, Jozić (Senčar), Bognar, Vuksan (Mikšić), Pudić (Vinogradac), Kuzminski, Jošćak, Janček (Stojčević), Kuprešak (Balunović) & Večerić.
Osijek will play Hajduk in the finals, who tied against Sibenik at Subicevac with a score of 1-1, while winning 3-1 at Poljud.
