Norwegian football intensity high, Dinamo must survive Viking's home pressure: Dario Čanađija

Dario Čanađija, a midfielder who has played for two Norwegian clubs, offers his perspective on the upcoming Europa League playoff second leg between Dinamo Zagreb and Viking, emphasizing the distinct nature of Norwegian football.

Čanađija notes that Norwegian football has undergone significant changes, moving away from long balls towards a more intense and tactically advanced style, influenced by clubs like Bodo/Glimt. He points out that Norwegian teams exhibit a stark contrast between their home and away performances, often being much stronger on home soil. "Norwegian teams play much harder away games; they are completely different teams at home and away," Čanađija stated.

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Norwegian teams play much harder away games; they are completely different teams at home and away.

He advises Dinamo Zagreb to prepare for a challenging environment in Stavanger. "The atmosphere at the stadium is good, and Viking will immediately press all over the field, which Dinamo needs to survive," he explained. Čanađija also mentioned the artificial turf at Viking's stadium, noting that while it's of good quality, Dinamo will need to adapt to it. He anticipates Viking will play with a very high running intensity.

Čanađija's experience includes playing for clubs like Sarpsborg and Aalesund in Norway. He also touched upon the financial aspects of playing in Norway, mentioning high taxes as a drawback for those not planning to settle there long-term, though he praised the excellent club organization and player-focused environment. He believes Dinamo is the better team but needs to overcome Viking's home advantage and intensity to advance.

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The atmosphere at the stadium is good, and Viking will immediately press all over the field, which Dinamo needs to survive.