This Sunday marks the continuation of the 24th round of the SuperSport HNL, where Rijeka will go head-to-head with Lokomotiva and Dinamo will take on Gorica at Maksimir. Rijeka, following a successful run in the Conference League that saw them qualify for the knockout stages against French side Strasbourg, is looking for a victory in the domestic league as they currently sit fifth in the standings with 32 points. A win today could propel them into third place, which offers a potential spot in next season's European competitions.

The team, led temporarily by assistant coach Ramiro Munoz due to head coach Victor Sanchez's health issues and suspension from prior matches, is keenly aware of the importance of this match. Lokomotiva, trailing by just three points, has been performing well lately and is determined to improve their standing. Both teams are fighting not just for points, but for relevance in the European tournament race, making this clash more than just a match up in the local league.

This encounter illustrates the competitive nature of the Croatian league, where each match can significantly impact the trajectories of the teams involved. With Lokomotiva evolving throughout the season, adapting formations, and improving as a unit, Rijeka must remain vigilant and prepared for a challenging fight today, as both sides have strong ambitions to excel as the season progresses.