Rijeka FC are currently competing in the UEFA Europa League third qualifying round, having exited the UEFA Champions League following a dramatic extra-time defeat to Ludogorets in July 2025[8]. On August 6th, Rijeka hosted Irish side Shelbourne at Stadion HNK Rijeka for the first leg of their Europa League tie[3]. Rijeka entered the match after a 2-0 HNL league win over Slaven Belupo, secured late with goals from substitutes Šimun Butić and Ante Jurić in injury time[3].
Rijeka’s domestic form has been solid, with the team managed by Radomir Djalovic maintaining a win rate above 50% in his tenure as coach[2]. Transfer news from winter 2025 saw notable activity, including Marco Pašalić’s move to MLS side Orlando City for €4.8 million and incoming signings such as Ante Oreč and Jovan Manev[1]. Key departures over the summer included Lindon Selahi and Naïs Djouahra on free transfers to Widzew Lodz and Arouca respectively[6].
Players in focus include midfielder Niko Jankovic, who has played every minute of Rijeka’s recent fixtures, and striker Šimun Butić, who made an immediate impact off the bench against Slaven Belupo[5]. Injuries and suspensions currently appear minimal, placing Rijeka in a strong position for their European and domestic campaigns[2].
The winner of Rijeka’s tie with Shelbourne will progress to face either PAOK or Wolfsberger in the Europa League playoffs, while the loser will drop into the UEFA Conference League[3].
References
- [1] Rijeka Transfers 2025 Winter, News & overview – Tribuna.com
- [2] HNK Rijeka | All the info, news and scores | BeSoccer
- [3] Rijeka vs Shelbourne Prediction and Betting Tips | August 6th 2025
- [5] Soccer, Croatia: Rijeka live scores, results, fixtures – Flashscore
- [6] HNK Rijeka Transfer News & Soccer Trade Rumors – 365Scores
- [8] Rijeka vs Ludogorets | UEFA Champions League 2025/26