Osijek have begun their second season in the SuperSport HNL with impressive performances, securing victories in both of their opening matches. After defeating Hajduk Split 2-0 in the first round, they went on to dismantle Rudeš with a commanding 6-1 win. The match was dominated early, with the score reaching 4-0 in the first half alone, thanks largely to goals from Armando Leon (two) and Nail Omerović (three). This strong start has sparked optimism among fans, who have long awaited such form after two seasons of underperformance. Former club legend Robert Špehar, who commented on the results for Index.hr, expressed his satisfaction with how the team has started the campaign. Špehar praised the team’s performance, noting that the game has taken on a more dynamic and attacking style compared to recent years. He highlighted the fluidity and aggression in their play, emphasizing that the players seem liberated from past constraints. “After a long time, the game looks like something familiar,” he said. “It flows smoothly, aggressively, with high pressing. We’re seeing beautiful actions and goals. It's great to be able to genuinely congratulate the new coach and the players.” He also noted that the players appear to be free from the mental shackles that had affected them during previous seasons. Despite the positive momentum, Špehar acknowledged that some skeptics might question whether the team can maintain this form against stronger opponents such as Dinamo Zagreb. However, he urged supporters to focus on the current success rather than speculate on future challenges. “Skeptics will naturally ask: ‘What happens when stronger teams come?’ But we should take what we're seeing right now and celebrate it. We need to support them so they can continue in this manner,” he said. He emphasized that even modest wins against less formidable opponents should not be underestimated, especially given the team’s history of struggles against tougher competition. Špehar pointed to the impact of the new coaching philosophy, which he believes has shifted the team toward a more offensive approach. “This new coach clearly has his vision. He wants an attacking football, exactly what the fans here in Osijek want. It’s been difficult watching the defensive-minded games of recent seasons,” he added. Despite financial constraints, Špehar believes that even with a budget of nine million euros, the team can achieve success. “The new president is correct. Neither Rijeka nor other clubs have much more money. It just comes down to finding the right coach, sports director, and players. This beginning shows it could work.” He specifically commended individual contributions, particularly highlighting the emergence of young forward Armando Leon. “Leon is a real discovery. He works hard, has speed, and unlike Mieresa, whose strength lay in heading, he’s stronger in footwork. He’s a pleasant surprise,” Špehar said. He also praised Nail Omerović, stating that the striker simply needed confidence restored. “Omerović has proven himself as a player who just needed his self-belief returned. I also commend Arnel Jakupović, who scored after coming on, and Luke Vrbančić, who is an invaluable player in midfield.” Looking ahead, Špehar sees the upcoming match against Lokomotiva as a key opportunity to build on this positive run. “A good start gives us a chance to gain momentum before tougher matches. I believe that beating Lokomotiva would bring back the crowd to Opus Arena,” he said. He expressed confidence that the team could challenge for higher positions in the league. “With the form shown in the first two rounds, I think we can hope for European qualification this season.” In addition to focusing on the men’s team, Špehar also mentioned the potential merger between the men’s and women’s sections of the club. “Everyone in the women’s team hopes that the initiative by our male club’s president, Alexandre Vegh, to unite the two sides will succeed. That would be a great thing for everyone in the club.”
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.
Become a Supporter
Croatia
