Dinamo Zagreb vs FCSB: Prediction, Team News, Lineups Preview

On Thursday, Dinamo Zagreb will host FCSB in a crucial Europa League clash. Both teams are seeking points to elevate their standings in the League Phase table. Currently, Dinamo Zagreb sits in 25th place, while FCSB follows closely in 27th, with only three points separating the teams from the top 24.

Match Preview

Dinamo Zagreb holds a narrow one-point lead in the Croatian league, attempting to maintain their position against the challenge from Hadjuk Split. Despite their domestic focus, they aim to advance in Europe after beginning the League Phase strongly. They secured seven points from initial matches against Fenerbahce, Maccabi Tel-Aviv, and Malmo. However, three straight defeats have dampened their momentum, with Celta Vigo, Lille, and Real Betis collectively scoring ten goals against them.

Another critical match against second-placed FC Midtjylland looms, making this upcoming game an imperative for Dinamo Zagreb to keep playoff hopes alive. The team struggles with a lack of match practice. Their last competitive game was on December 20, with only a single friendly on January 15, which they lost.

FCSB’s Recent Form

FCSB has faced challenges in their domestic league, currently sitting ninth and trailing league leaders by 12 points. Their last match saw a 1-0 loss to fifth-placed FC Arges. Despite this downturn in form, they managed a remarkable 4-3 victory against Feyenoord in their recent European outing, keeping them in contention for a playoff spot. Coach Elias Charalambous understands that securing wins is crucial to alleviate pressure on the team.

Team Forms

• Dinamo Zagreb Europa League form: W W D L L L
• Dinamo Zagreb form (all competitions): L W D L W W
• FCSB Europa League form: W L L L L W
• FCSB form (all competitions): L D W W W L

Team News

With this being Dinamo Zagreb’s first competitive outing in over a month, the lineup might reflect the squad that triumphed in their derby against Lokomotiv Zagreb. Mateo Lisica is expected to return but may be managed carefully after a long absence. Key players such as Scott McKenna, Josip Misic, Dejan Ljubicic, and Arber Hoxha have started every match in the League Phase. Forward Dion Beljo has been impactful, contributing two goals and one assist.

On the other hand, FCSB likely will not make significant changes following their recent defeat, as the players are accustomed to competitive play. David Miculescu, Alexandru Stoian, and Risto Radunovic may return to the starting lineup, while Darius Olaru is back after a European suspension.

Potential Lineups

Prediction

This match between Dinamo Zagreb and FCSB promises to be closely contested. Given their analogous records in the 2025-26 Europa League, a low-scoring draw seems likely. Although Zagreb is viewed as the slight favorite, their lack of recent competitive play might hinder their performance.