Rijeka seeks comeback at home to reach European autumn

Croatian football club Rijeka faces a critical 90 minutes at home on Thursday as they aim to overturn a two-goal deficit against Danish side Midtjylland in the Europa Conference League playoff.

The team, managed by Matjaž Kek, lost the first leg away from home and now must secure a victory at their Rujevica stadium to ensure a place in the league phase of the competition. The stakes are high, not only for sporting pride but also financially, with advancement promising an additional 3.17 million euros on top of the 1.275 million euros already secured by reaching the playoff stage.

Kek acknowledged some injury concerns within the squad, with Adu-Adjei and Rukavina having experienced fitness issues. However, the coach remained resolute, stating his full confidence in the available players to deliver the necessary performance. "We have players who are ready and can replace them. I stand 100 percent behind the players, I have no doubts and I know they will give their all," Kek said.

The expected lineup for Rijeka in a 4-2-3-1 formation includes Todorović, Oreč, Majstorović, Husić, Lasickas, Pavić, Barco, Fruk, Dantas, Jaković, and Adu-Adjei. The match will be officiated by a Belgian refereeing team led by Jasper Vergoote.

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We have players who are ready and can replace them. I stand 100 percent behind the players, I have no doubts and I know they will give their all.