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Dinamo Zagreb enter this season’s Europa League group stage as Croatia’s most decorated club, but their recent European journey has been a turbulent one. Last year, the capital side missed out on the Champions League after being overtaken domestically by Rijeka, yet still secured second place in the league. That finish guaranteed Dinamo direct entry into the Europa League without having to navigate the tricky qualification rounds.
In the league, Dinamo remain a force. After six rounds, they sit at the top of the table, ahead of a crucial domestic showdown with Hajduk Split this weekend. Earlier in August, they already proved their strength with a 2-0 away win at Rijeka, a result that reminded fans of their dominance at home.
Fenerbahce’s New Era Under De Zerbi
Fenerbahce arrive in Europe under fresh leadership. Following José Mourinho’s dismissal—triggered by a painful Champions League elimination to Benfica (0-0, 0-1)—the Istanbul side turned to Domenico Tedesco, the former Belgium national team coach. So far, the gamble is paying off. In his first matches at the helm, Tedesco has guided Fener to solid league victories over Gençlerbirliği (3-1) and Trabzonspor (1-0), building momentum ahead of continental competition.
The club’s ambition is clear: return to Europe’s elite competitions and reestablish themselves as one of the most feared sides in Turkey. The trip to Zagreb offers Tedesco his first major test in Europe with the “Yellow Canaries.”
Squad Updates and Key Players
Dinamo Zagreb reinforced their squad with high-profile arrivals, including AC Milan’s Ismael Bennacer, defender McKenna (Las Palmas), and striker Dion Drena Beljo from Augsburg. Beljo has already impressed with four goals in the league, while Ljubičić (formerly of Cologne) has slotted seamlessly into midfield. Despite these reinforcements, Dinamo lost several key players: Marko Pjaca to Twente, Martin Baturina in a €18 million move to Como, and SCU to Inter for €14 million. They will also be without Spanish defender Raúl Torrente, who is sidelined long-term with ligament damage.
Fenerbahce, on the other hand, have made headline-grabbing signings. Manchester City’s Ederson, PSG’s Marco Asensio, and Benfica’s Kerem Aktürkoğlu joined during the summer window, with Aktürkoğlu already proving decisive by scoring against Fener’s city rivals. However, the squad is not without problems. Nelson Semedo is a doubt with a muscle injury, while Edson Álvarez (ex-West Ham) and John Duran face late fitness tests. Long-term absentees include İrfan Can Kahveci, Rodrigo Becão, and Arda Güler.
Tactical Outlook
Dinamo will likely lean on their attacking duo, particularly Beljo, to test Fenerbahce’s defensive shape. With Bennacer anchoring midfield, they aim to balance attacking intent with stability. Fener, however, possess greater squad depth and creativity. Tedesco is expected to emphasize quick transitions and wing play, with Asensio and Aktürkoğlu supplying chances for the forwards.
The battle could hinge on midfield dominance, where Dinamo’s energy will clash with Fener’s technical precision. Home advantage favors Zagreb, but Fenerbahce’s away record in Europe suggests they will not be intimidated.
Prediction
Dinamo Zagreb have struggled at home in European competition, winning only four of their last 18 Europa League fixtures. Fenerbahce, meanwhile, have been impressive travelers, collecting eight victories in their last 14 away matches at this level. Expect a close contest, but the Turkish side’s depth, form, and experience should give them the edge in Zagreb.
Prediction: Dinamo Zagreb 1 – 2 Fenerbahce
