They're the biggest miracle in HR football today, they've been looking for a rescue, and now they're with the same team in front of the Dinamos.

Federico Bessone, coach of Osijek, expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance so far this season, stating, "If I didn't believe in it, I wouldn't be here." The match against Lokomotiva, scheduled for Saturday at 21:00 at Opus Arena, marks the first home game for Osijek this season and has generated considerable interest among fans in Slavonia. According to reports, Osijek opened the season with two away victories, first over Gorica 2:0, then a convincing win over Rudeš 6:1. Now they face a more challenging opponent, Lokomotiva, which has also secured maximum points in its first two matches. The match will be broadcast live on Max Sport 1, and there is great anticipation among the local supporters. Bessone emphasized the importance of the home game, saying, "We are excited about our first home match of the season and confident that the fans will support us throughout all 90 minutes. This won’t be pressure, it will be an additional motivation to be even better. That’s the mindset we want to create." He praised the mentality of the young players, calling them "hungry" and eager to prove themselves. "They have the potential, and I’m happy to see that confirmed," he added. Bessone acknowledged Lokomotiva as a serious opponent, particularly noting their threat during transitions. "It will be a tough and interesting match. Both teams are in good form, having achieved two wins each. We’ve watched both of their games and admire how they play. They have strong personality and are dangerous in transition. That means we must stay focused for all 90 minutes," he explained. Despite the challenges, Bessone believes the team is ready and motivated. "We’re in a good run, and the fans are excited about what we’ve shown in our last two matches. Our team is prepared, satisfied, and happy. Most importantly, we need to continue working like this." He also mentioned the presence of Matej Mitrović, who trains with the squad. "Mitrović is training with us and I’d like to see him for some time before making a final decision. But again, I’m satisfied with the team I currently have. We’ll see whether there will be any departures, and I hope not due to injuries. What matters is that the players are fully committed, mentally invested in Osijek, and that shows on the pitch," Bessone concluded. Meanwhile, tensions have escalated at Hajduk Split following a controversial incident during a match against Istra 1961. Ivan Bilić, the club president, was subjected to vulgar chants from fans, who referred to him as part of the "prgava familija", a derogatory term used to describe the club's leadership. After a 2-2 draw, fans chanted "Uprava odlazi" (The Board is leaving), targeting the entire board, including Bilić and head coach Gonzalo García. This unrest follows years of dissatisfaction among fans, with the club's management facing repeated criticism. The situation has raised concerns about the future of both Bilić and García, especially given the upcoming five matches crucial for qualification to the Conference League and earning points in the league. If the team fails to perform well, García could be replaced despite the high cost of his contract termination. Potential replacements include Silvio Čabraja, Mario Carević, and Valdas Dambrauskas, though the latter's return is uncertain due to past controversies. Bilić’s leadership, chosen in April 2024, has been surprising, given his previous role as a passionate fan and his recent disengagement from football. His replacement would raise questions about who might take over, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the club’s direction. Looking back, Hajduk has had a history of leadership changes, often influenced by political factors. From Branko Grgić, who led the club for seven years, through Tit Križanović, whose tenure lasted ten years, to more recent figures like Mate Peroš and Joško Svaguša, the club has seen many leaders. The current crisis underscores the deep-rooted issues within the club, with fans demanding accountability and change. Osijek, meanwhile, continues to build momentum under Bessone, with a record-breaking start to the season. Their three consecutive wins, including two clean sheets, have positioned them strongly in the standings. Fans are returning to the stadium in greater numbers, and the team’s attacking style has captured attention. Bessone has stressed the importance of maintaining this intensity, emphasizing that small improvements can make a big difference. With the upcoming match against Lokomotiva, the focus remains on sustaining this positive momentum and proving that Osijek can compete at the highest level.