Dinamo Zagreb faces Hapoel Beer Sheva in Europa League opener

Dinamo Zagreb is set to begin its UEFA Europa League campaign against Hapoel Beer Sheva. Due to security concerns in Israel, the match will be held at a neutral venue, the Giulești Stadium in Bucharest, Romania.

Dinamo enters the fixture facing significant squad challenges. Top scorer Dion Drena Beljo and defender Stjepan Radeljić are unavailable due to illness. Coach Mario Kovačević must also navigate a depleted defensive line and potential changes to the midfield following recent domestic struggles.

In club news, Dinamo President Zvonimir Boban recently visited the dressing room to support coach Kovačević following a league defeat. Analysts suggest this move was intended to reinforce the coach's authority rather than undermine it. Meanwhile, Hapoel Beer Sheva arrives after a strong domestic run, though they have faced difficulties in recent European group-stage appearances.