Following a disappointing 3-1 loss to Genk in the first leg of the Europa League knockout phase, Dinamo Zagreb's coach Mario Kovačević addressed the media, highlighting the team's mistakes as a critical factor in the defeat. Kovačević pointed out that while the team had moments of solid play, they were ultimately undone by a critical error during a set piece, which allowed Genk to take the lead. He underscored the importance of better reactions during such phases of the game and acknowledged that his players had been impulsive, which led to missed opportunities for the team.

Kovačević admitted that despite having dominated portions of the match, particularly in the second half, the team struggled to convert their possession into scoring chances. He noted that while they created several situations near Genk's goal, they failed to pose a significant threat, allowing Genk to capitalize on counterattacks. The coach remained optimistic about his team's spirit, stating that they did not give up towards the end of the first half and were able to score a goal, reflecting their determination to fight back in the match.

In the wake of the loss, Kovačević's comments highlight ongoing concerns regarding Dinamo's defensive solidity and finishing prowess, aspects that will likely be crucial as they prepare for the second leg of the play-off and the remainder of the season. His analysis not only calls for improvement in specific areas but also serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of European football at this level, where small mistakes can have significant consequences.