Mario Carević before the match with Hajduk repeated the legendary statement of Ante Rebić

Mario Carević, head coach of NK Gorica, echoed a famous quote from former player Ante Rebić ahead of their upcoming match against Hajduk Split. The statement came amid a challenging start to the season for Gorica, which suffered defeats in its first two matches against Osijek and Lokomotiva Zagreb. Now facing one of Croatia’s top teams, Carević expressed cautious optimism about the team's ability to deliver a competitive performance. Carević emphasized that despite the lack of points in the opening fixtures, the players remain highly motivated. He acknowledged the quality, versatility, and speed of Hajduk’s attacking line but noted that every team has weaknesses that can be exploited. “We need to be very careful,” he said, adding that he believes Gorica can find ways to counter Hajduk’s strengths. The arrival of new midfielder Jakov Pranjić has brought fresh dynamics to Gorica’s midfield. Described as a player who can create one-on-one situations and add a new dimension to the team, Pranjić’s role as a winger, eight, or inside forward has been welcomed by Carević. “It’s great to have him with us,” he said, expressing confidence in Pranjić’s potential contributions. When asked whether more signings were planned, Carević referenced a well-known saying attributed to Rebić, joking, “Second row left.” While acknowledging the need to continue scouting and negotiating, he stressed that the club knows exactly what it requires and expects to achieve balance once all planned transfers are completed. The match against Hajduk is anticipated to draw significant public interest, given the historical rivalry and the high stakes involved. However, Carević refrained from labeling it a turning point in the season. “This is just the beginning of the championship,” he said, noting that playing against Hajduk always brings extra motivation. He hopes for a full stadium and urged his team to stay controlled and focused on executing their game plan. Gorica’s early-season struggles have placed pressure on the coaching staff and players alike. After consecutive losses, the team is looking for signs of improvement, particularly in the midfield, where Pranjić’s addition is expected to provide stability and creativity. Carević reiterated the importance of maintaining composure and discipline during crucial moments, highlighting that the team had shown flashes of promise in previous matches. The upcoming encounter with Hajduk will test both the tactical preparedness and mental resilience of Gorica. With fans eager for a breakthrough performance, the team faces the challenge of translating preparation into results. Carević remains optimistic, believing that the squad has the potential to grow stronger through such high-profile encounters. As the season progresses, the focus will shift toward building consistency and securing key victories. For Gorica, the match against Hajduk represents not just a test of skill but also an opportunity to demonstrate progress and determination. The outcome could influence the team’s trajectory in the league and set the tone for future performances.