Croatian club HNK Rijeka is poised for a significant challenge as they prepare to face RC Strasbourg Alsace in the round of 16 of the 2025–26 UEFA Conference League. This matchup begins on Thursday at the Stadion HNK Rijeka, where Rijeka will seek to leverage their home advantage.
Match Details
- Fixture: HNK Rijeka vs. RC Strasbourg Alsace
- Date: Thursday
- Location: Stadion HNK Rijeka
HNK Rijeka’s Journey
HNK Rijeka has displayed strong performance throughout their UEFA Conference League campaign. The team progressed from the league phase with critical results, including a goalless draw against Shakhtar Donetsk and a 3–0 win over NK Celje. These results set the stage for their knockout progression.
In the knockout play-offs, Rijeka excelled with two wins against AC Omonia, solidifying their spot in this round. Under the leadership of Victor Sanchez del Amo, their attacking prowess has been bolstered by key players like Toni Fruk, Dion Drena Beljo, and Niko Petrovic.
Strasbourg’s Strengths
Strasbourg has also had a remarkable season, having finished top of their league phase group without losses. This success enabled them to enter the knockout round directly. Coach Gary O’Neil has cultivated a dynamic team that excels in attack, highlighted by Martial Godo’s contributions of three goals and two assists to date.
Traveling to Croatia, Strasbourg aims to maintain their winning momentum. However, they will face a formidable opponent in Rijeka, particularly in front of a passionate home crowd.
Team News
HNK Rijeka
- Teo Barisic is ruled out due to a hamstring injury.
- Toni Fruk could miss the match after appearing as a late substitute in their last league match.
- Returning players include Tornike Morchiladze and Merveil Ndockyt, who were suspended.
- Defenders Ante Majstorovic and Ante Orec risk suspension with another yellow card.
RC Strasbourg
- Emanuel Emegha remains sidelined with a muscle fibre tear.
- Aaron Anselmino is recovering from a hamstring issue.
- Winger Diego Moreira is unavailable due to an abductor injury.
- Valentin Barco and Guela Doue are one booking away from suspension.
Match Prediction
As HNK Rijeka faces RC Strasbourg, both teams bring solid form into this crucial encounter. A tense matchup is expected, reflecting the pressure of knockout football. While Rijeka will strive for a home advantage, Strasbourg’s consistent performance suggests they can secure a valuable away result.
Our prediction for this match is a 1-1 draw, setting the stage for an intriguing second leg in France.
