The Rijeka football team achieved an impressive 1-0 away victory against Omonia in Nicosia during the first match of the playoff for a spot in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa Conference League. The match was characterized by intense competition as Rijeka faced a strong opponent, known for being at the top of their league. Captain Martin Zlomislić highlighted the challenges faced during the match, acknowledging the skill of the Omonia players but expressed confidence in his team's performance and resilience.

On the individual front, Zlomislić, who played a pivotal role as a goalkeeper, underscored the importance of his position in European matches, stating that the goalkeeper must contribute significantly to the team's efforts. The captain’s sentiments reflect a collective commitment from the players, who metaphorically left their heart on the field while competing. Zlomislić's belief in progressing to the next round is fueled by the unwavering support from the fans, who are seen as a crucial element in the team’s success.

Daniel Adu-Adjei, who scored the only goal of the match, entered the game in the 81st minute and found the back of the net just six minutes later. His late-game performance demonstrated not only individual skill but also the team's ability to manage the match pace effectively, knowing when to exert pressure. The overall sense of professionalism portrayed by the Rijeka players has set a positive tone heading into the return match, where they will aim to secure their advancement in the tournament, building on the confidence gained from the victory in this challenging encounter.