Dinamo is playing against the Ukrainian champion tonight, but the game is strictly closed to the public.

Dinamo Zagreb will face Ukrainian second division side LNZ Čerkasy in a closed-door match tonight, with no public access allowed for fans, media representatives, or live broadcasting. The game will take place behind completely sealed doors, marking a rare instance where a top-tier club's match is held under such strict secrecy. This decision comes just days before Dinamo's first leg of their UEFA Europa League play-off against Swiss side Thun on July 21. The match against Čerkasy is being treated as a final rehearsal for Dinamo’s European campaign. Coach Mario Kovačević will have the opportunity to test new formations, player combinations, and tactical approaches without external scrutiny. The game is scheduled exactly one week prior to Dinamo’s away fixture in Switzerland, followed by a return match at Maksimir Stadium seven days later. By keeping this encounter private, the coaching staff aims to fine-tune preparations ahead of the continental challenge. Dinamo has had a highly successful pre-season so far, winning all three friendly matches they have played. In Slovenia, they defeated Radomlje 3-0 and Brinje Grosuplje 9-0 before returning home to beat Slovenian second division team Kopra 4-2. These results highlight the team’s strong form, with an impressive goal difference of 16-2 across the fixtures. Opposing them tonight is LNZ Čerkasy, a surprise package from last season’s Ukrainian league. The team finished second in the Ukrainian SuperLeague, narrowly missing out on the title to Shakhtar Donetsk. Despite finishing second, Čerkasy demonstrated resilience throughout the campaign, making them a formidable opponent even in a friendly setting. The decision to hold the match behind closed doors reflects the club’s desire to maintain an element of unpredictability in their preparations. While such secrecy is uncommon for a high-profile team like Dinamo, it underscores the importance of the upcoming European fixtures. The club has not disclosed specific reasons for the closure, but it is believed to be part of a broader strategy to ensure that the team can experiment freely without pressure from supporters or media. LNZ Čerkasy, though coming from a lower division, is known for its competitive spirit and solid performances in domestic competitions. Their presence in the match adds an extra layer of intensity, even if it is a preparatory game. For Dinamo, the encounter serves both as a test of their readiness and a chance to gauge how their tactics might fare against a more physically demanding style of play. As the European campaign looms, Dinamo’s management and coaching staff are focused on ensuring the team is fully prepared for the challenges ahead. With the first leg against Thun approaching, every detail matters, and the closed-door match represents a strategic move to refine key aspects of their performance. Fans will have to wait until the official fixtures begin to see how these preparations translate into actual competition.